Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by unreasonable thoughts (obsessions) and/or repetitive behaviours (compulsions).
Obsessions are repeated, persistent and unwanted thoughts, urges or images that cause distress or anxiety. For example, fear of being contaminated by shaking hands or by touching objects others have touched, doubts that you’ve locked the door or turned off the stove, etc.
Compulsions are repetitive behaviours that you feel driven to perform. For example, hand-washing until your skin becomes raw, checking doors repeatedly to make sure they’re locked, checking the stove repeatedly to make sure it’s off.
Treatment includes medications and psychotherapy.
