Do I Have OCD? What You Need to Know

OCD is often misrepresented in media as just a quirky preference for organization. In reality, it's a chronic condition affecting about 1 in 40 people that can cause significant distress. Understanding the real symptoms is the first step toward getting help.

The OCD Cycle

OCD involves two components:

• Obsessions: Intrusive, unwanted thoughts that cause significant anxiety. These often involve things deeply important to the person.
• Compulsions: Repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to reduce anxiety caused by obsessions.

Common OCD Themes

• Fear of contamination
• Fear of harming yourself or others
• Intrusive violent or sexual thoughts
• Excessive focus on moral/religious concerns
• Need for symmetry or exactness
• Fear of losing important items

Common Compulsions

• Excessive checking (locks, appliances, loved ones)
• Repeated hand washing or cleaning
• Counting or repeating words/prayers
• Arranging items in specific ways
• Mental rituals (replaying events, seeking reassurance)

Treatment Options

Medication: SSRIs are commonly prescribed and often effective for OCD symptoms.

Therapy: Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the gold standard therapy for OCD, helping patients confront fears without engaging in compulsions.