Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

OCD is characterized by and individual having a cycle of obsessions (unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images or impulses that trigger distress) and compulsions (behaviors or thoughts that one uses in attempt to reduce fear, anxiety and distress caused by obsessions).

Many people will have times in their life where they have obsessions and/or compulsions, but that does not mean they have OCD. Those with OCD spend excessive amounts of time in their disorder and it will interfere with activities of daily living, important activities and reduce quality of life.

 It can occur at any age, but often will present at 8-12 years old, or late teen-early adulthood.

While many people have ideas on how OCD can present itself, there are numerous subtypes of OCD with variations on the symptoms one may have; Contamination, Responsibility, Sexual, Violent, Religious/moral, Real Event or false memories, Identity, and Perfectionism are some more common themes.

www.iocdf.org