OCD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, is characterized by patterns of unpleasant thoughts and anxieties called obsessions that lead to uncontrollably repeating behaviors called compulsions. Both can disrupt everyday routines and result in significant stress.

People who suffer from this condition feel worse when they try to ignore it or stop it. At the end of the day, they will be pushed to engage in compulsive behaviors to relieve the tension and strain they are experiencing. Because of this, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is like a self-perpetuating cycle; those who suffer from it feel trapped and unable to break free.

According to the Mayo Clinic, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) frequently involves specific patterns in everyday tasks. For example, a person with OCD may experience an extreme fear of germ contamination, leading them to wash their hands until they are raw and cracked in an attempt to relieve this worry.

Are you experiencing OCD symptoms?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is characterized by the presence of obsessions, compulsions, or a mix of both, which can lead to several difficulties. The symptoms, as described by Medical News Today, include the following:

• Obsession

When obsession-inducing anxiety suddenly appears, it manifests as:

• Contamination: body fluids, bacteria, dust, and other materials.
• A lack of self-control, including an irrational fear of harming themselves or others
• Perfectionism: the fear of overlooking or intense concentration on remembering something.
• Danger: the fear of being responsible for a major event, such as a disaster
• Irrational sexual ideas, including those regarding inappropriate behaviors
• Religious views or myths, like being afraid of offending God,

• Compulsion

Not all repetitive behaviors are considered compulsions; for example, getting up early every day or eating bread every morning are not compulsions. Severely disturbing and time-consuming repeated behaviors are experienced by people with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), as reported by Mind.org below:

• Ritualistic: such as excessive washing of hands or body parts, arranging items in the same position, touching items in a certain order at a certain time
• Checking: for example, checking doors and windows, clothes, and memories—to make sure it didn't happen
• Correcting: repeating sentences aloud, counting certain numbers, and substituting distracting thoughts with other visuals.
• Continuous reassurance: receiving assurance from others that everything will be fine.

What causes OCD?

Although doctors are uncertain as to the specific cause of OCD, stress can exacerbate the symptoms. According to WebMD and Medical News Today, several factors can contribute to OCD development, such as:

• Several brain regions have different physical characteristics.
• Depression and anxiety
• Past trauma
• Childhood sexual abuse
• Familial genetics.

It is not possible to prevent or treat OCD. Nevertheless, therapy and treatment may help in symptom management, preventing this disorder from causing problems in daily life.

If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or use the consultation features available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.