“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder characterized by intrusive and unwanted thoughts, images, or impulses (obsessions) that lead to repetitive, ritualistic behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to alleviate anxiety or prevent harm.
Common obsessions in OCD include:
Compulsions may include:
OCD can interfere with daily life and cause significant distress, anxiety, and impairment. Treatment for OCD often involves a combination of medication and psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy.
Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can help alleviate symptoms by altering brain chemistry. CBT focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with OCD, while ERP involves gradually exposing the person to feared situations or objects and preventing the compulsive behavior.
Lifestyle changes, such as stress reduction techniques, regular exercise, and healthy sleep habits, can also help manage symptoms of OCD. It is important to seek professional help if OCD symptoms are interfering with daily life, causing distress, or are difficult to manage.