Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that individuals feel driven to perform in response to these thoughts. The compulsions are typically meant to reduce anxiety or prevent a feared event or situation, though these actions are not realistically connected to the feared event or are clearly excessive.

Obsessions in OCD are unwanted and distressing thoughts, images, or urges that intrude into the individual’s mind. These can be disturbing or cause significant anxiety, leading the person to try to suppress or neutralize them. Common obsessions include fears of contamination, fears of harming oneself or others, and concerns about symmetry or order.

Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental rituals performed to relieve the anxiety caused by obsessions or to prevent a feared event. These behaviors may include excessive hand washing, checking, counting, or repeating actions. Although individuals with OCD may recognize that their compulsions are irrational, they often feel unable to stop performing them.

OCD affects approximately 1-2% of the population worldwide, with both adults and children being impacted. It often begins in childhood or adolescence, but it can develop at any age. The disorder can significantly impact daily life, affecting work, social relationships, and overall functioning. It often leads to time-consuming rituals that take up hours each day, causing distress and impairing normal activities.