Obsessions are unwanted thoughts, images, or urges
that may be extreme or disturbing.
The obsessions are accompanied by uncomfortable feelings, such as fear, disgust, doubt, or a feeling that things have to be “just right.”
These obsessions occur over and over again and feel outside of the person’s control.
Common obsessions can include:
• Contamination
• Doubts
• Perfectionism
• Unwanted sexual or violent thoughts
• Religion / god related thoughts
Compulsions are excessive, repetitive behaviors or “mental acts”
Common compulsions can include:
• Frequent, excessive washing and/or cleaning.
• Frequent, excessive checking
(e.g. that the door is locked, that the oven is off, etc.).
• Repeating.
• Mental compulsions
(e.g. counting, praying, and reviewing).
• Frequent, excessive reassurance seeking
(e.g. asking “I’m going to be OK?”).
Through Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, medication, and a combination of both, symptoms for OCD can be reduced. Consult psychiatrist.
Health Tips
Talk to a psychiatrist