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What is obsessive compulsive disorder?
People with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) are plagued with constant unwelcome thoughts - they may be obsessed with the idea that germs are everywhere, for example. Even if they know they are being irrational, they feel compelled to repeat some action over and over again, like constant cleaning or hand washing. Others feel they must check things repeatedly, perhaps before leaving the house.Enlarge
People with OCD may feel compelled to perform a certain action to cope with their obsession.
Can we treat OCD?
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a result of ordinary behaviour taken to extremes so that it disrupts daily life. In the past, sufferers may have been forced to touch a dirty object, but then helped to overcome the need to wash their hands. Nowadays, treatment involves helping the person to find less distressing ways to control their obsessions or rituals. This type of therapy is often used in combination with drug treatment.
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In the past, a sufferer from OCD may have been forced to touch a dirty object. Nowadays, treatment involves less distressing ways of helping the person to control obsessions.
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