OCD: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental health condition characterized by the presence of obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that cause significant anxiety or distress. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to reduce the anxiety or prevent a feared event, although these actions often offer only temporary relief or no realistic connection to the feared outcome. OCD can significantly impair daily functioning, affecting social, occupational, and personal life. The exact cause of OCD is not fully understood but is believed to involve a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Treatment typically includes a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Despite being a chronic condition, many individuals with OCD can manage symptoms effectively with proper treatment and support.