OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder)
The itch you just can't scratch!
10/16/15
Health-5
Definition
Background
In the seventeenth century, obsessions and compulsions were often described as symptoms of religious melancholy. Not until the 20th century they started to understand what OCD was actually. OCD has changed its theory over the many years. Now this illness affects as many as 12 in every 1000 people (1.2% of the population) regardless of age and gender. World Health Organization has actually ranked OCD in the top ten of the most disabling illnesses of any kind.
Causes
Symptoms
- Having excessive concern with dirt/germs.
- Frequent hand washing, showering, or grooming in a ritualistic manner.
- Taking long frequent trips to the restroom.
- Avoiding getting dirty or sticky.
- Being excessively concerned with bodily secretions or wastes.
- Counting and/or repeating things a certain number of times.
- Engaging in repeating rituals.
- Having excessive fear of harm coming to self or others.
Gender/Age specifics
Treatment
Agencies
8730 Georgia Ave., ste. 600
240-485-1001
Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies
305 Seventh Ave., 16th Fl./ New York, NY 10001-6008
212-647-1890
International Foundation for Research and Education or Depression
2017-D Rehard Ct./Annapolis, MD 21401
410-268-0044
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