OCD
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

From hoarding to hand-washing to forever checking the stove, obsessive-compulsive disorder takes many forms. It is an anxiety disorder that traps people in repetitive thoughts and behavioral rituals that can be completely disabling.

Surveys conducted by the NIMH show that 2 percent of the population suffers from OCD—more than experience such mental illnesses as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and panic disorder. OCD may begin in childhood but it most often starts during adolescence or early adulthood. Scientists believe that both a neurobiological predisposition and environmental factors jointly cause the unwanted, intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors patterns meant to appease the unwanted thoughts.

Unless treated, the disorder tends to be chronic, lasting for years, even decades, although the severity of the symptoms may wax and wane over the years. Both pharmacological and behavioral approaches have proven effective as treatments, and often a combination of both is most helpful.