Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Do you have OCD?
Definition
OCD is an anxiety disorder characterized by irrational or unrealistic fears caused by intrusive thoughts along with performing rituals aimed at relieving the associated anxiety.
Signs and Sympotms
- Repeated handwashing
- Preoccupied with sexual or religious thoughts
- Hoarding
- Avoid certain numbers
- Terrified of germs
- Irritable
- Avoid certain situations that may trigger compulsions
The OCD Cyle
Treatment/Medication
The best treatment for OCD is cognitive behavioral therapy, which involves one on one attention with a licensed psychologist addressing the OCD issues. Another way to deal with OCD is through exposure therapy, which involves not performing a compulsion when the urge comes to do so. Therefore, the urge would bother the person less and less every time it is resisted. Another way to treat OCD is with medication. Some of the medications that are capable of fighting OCD are paroxetine, fluoxetine, and escitalopram.
Why OCD affects some but not others
There is no known reason why OCD affects some people but not others. However, researchers believe that it may run in families. Another reason that a person may fall victim to OCD is because of a low amount of the neurotransmitter named serotonin which can be found in the human nervous system.
Famous people with OCD
- Justin Timberlake
- Billy Bob Thorton
- Leonardo DiCaprio
- Cameron Diaz