Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Do you do things repeatedly?
What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder in which people have recurring, unwanted thoughts, that make them compelled to do something repeatedly. (Such as washing your hands every hour)
Signs and Symptoms of OCD
1. Doubts that you've locked the door.
2. Intense stress when things aren't properly organized.
3. Fear of contamination or dirt.
4. Frequent hand washing.
5. Criticizing of others people because things aren't properly organized or neat.
Causes
OCD sometimes runs in families, but no one knows what actually causes it. Researchers have found that several parts of the brain are involved with fear and anxiety, so it probably just develops over time.
Treatment
Medication
A common medication used in dealing with OCD is serotonin reuptake indicators (SRIs). Each SRI can increase the quality of life and improving function. This medication reduces the frequency and amount of symptoms that occur after taking the medicine.
Treatment
Therapy
Cognitive-Behavioral therapy known as exposure and response prevention. Patients are 'exposed' to anxiety situations. The patient then follows exposure and response prevention rules so that the therapist and the patient both agree on. These procedures can help reduce OCD Symptoms.
Interesting Facts about OCD
!
1. OCD affects both men and women. Symptoms develop over time from childhood to adulthood.
2. 2.3 % of the population ages 18-54 are affected by OCD. An additional 1 million children and adolescents have the disorder as well.
3. People who have OCD often hid the disorder from colleagues and family.
4. OCD runs in some families and may be genetically inherited.
5. It is common for a person with OCD to have clinical depression or panic attacks.
6. Children with OCD may not realize their behavior is 'different'.
International OCD Foundation
Our Mission is to...
Educate the public and professionals about OCD in order to raise awareness and improve the quality of treatment provided.
Support research into the causes of, and effective treatments for, OCD and related disorders.
Improve access to resources for those with OCD and their families.
Advocate and lobby on behalf of the OCD community.
Email: info@ocfoundation.org
Website: http://www.ocfoundation.org/
Location: International OCD Foundation, Inc.
Phone: (617) 973-5801