Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD)

Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD)

OCD is a mental disorder in which people have uncontrollable, reoccurring thoughts, urges, or images (obsessions) and behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that he or she feels the urge to repeat over and over to prevent or reduce distress.

Some common obsessions (not limited to the list):

  • Fear of germs or contamination
  • Unwanted forbidden or taboo thoughts involving sex, religion, and harm
  • Aggressive thoughts towards others or self
  • Having things symmetrical or in a perfect order
  • Repeated unwanted thoughts/ urges/ images

Some common compulsions (not limited to the list):

  • handwashing or excessing cleaning
  • ordering/ arranging
  • checking
  • counting
  • repeating words silently

If you think you or your beloved ones have OCD, please seek help.

Reference: National Institute of Mental Health, 2016; American Psychiatric Association, 2013