What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder where individuals experience unwanted, persistent thoughts (obsessions) that cause distress, often leading to repetitive actions (compulsions) to reduce anxiety. Common compulsions include hand-washing, checking, and counting. OCD can interfere significantly with daily life and relationships, as individuals feel compelled to perform these rituals to relieve their distress.
Effective treatment includes cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), particularly exposure and response prevention (ERP), and sometimes medication to help manage symptoms.