On Obsessive-compulsive disorder

What is OCD?

OCD is characterised by the presence of obsessions and/or compulsions. 

Obsessions can present as intrusive thoughts, urges, images or impulses, that cause distress to the individual.

The compulsions are behaviours performed to reduce anxiety, distress, or discomfort; and/or to get rid of the obsessions.

Most individuals have experienced intrusive thoughts in the course of their lives, but not all individuals who experienced intrusive thoughts have OCD.

Individuals who have OCD do not want to have the intrusive thoughts and often they want to know the meaning of having the intrusive thought.

Types of obsessions

There are different types of obsessions, e.g. fears of contamination, orderliness, responsibility, moral/scrupulosity, harm to self or others, sexual orientation, relationship, just right, etc.

Types of compulsions

The compulsions are repetitive behaviours or thoughts performed to get rid of the uncomfortable feelings and obsessions. Compulsions behaviours are time consuming and excessive, for example, washing, cleaning, checking, repeating things - re-reading or re-writing, tapping, ordering objects, telling on self, asking for reassurance, avoiding situations that can trigger obsessions. There are also the mental compulsions, for example, counting, undoing things, saying words in one’s mind to neutralise harm, mental review to prevent harm, etc.

Most often than not, individuals suffering with OCD know their intrusive thoughts are irrational, but the level of distress is such that they feel compelled to perform the compulsions to rid themselves from the intrusive thoughts.

Individuals suffering with OCD have frequent intrusive thoughts, causing severe distress. The obsessions and compulsions are time consuming and impact on the individual’s daily functioning.

For a comprehensive list of obsessions and compulsions check the International OCD Foundation here.