What is OCD?

“Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a long-lasting disorder in which a person experiences uncontrollable and recurring thoughts (obsessions), engages in repetitive behaviors (compulsions), or both”. National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Obsessive-compulsive disorder. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/obsessive-compulsive-disorder Retrieved October 17th 2023

Obsessions may be seen as repetitive intrusive thoughts, images, urges, doubts that are unwanted. OCD might latch onto things that have meaning in ones life such as ones relationship, finances, sexual orientation, family, etc. Obsessions are followed by an emotional reaction or distress. One might experience emotions such disgust, shame, or anger. Obsessions in connection to distress emotions will follow into the compulsive behaviors. Behaviors that are either mental or physical. Compulsions offer short term relief, can be done repetitively and often will reduce distress. Commons compulsions one might experience include rumination, checking, reassurance seeking, or avoidance. These compulsions will offer short term relief, but end up reinforcing the obsessions. Keeping one in the OCD cycle by engaging in the compulsions. While the compulsions offer short term relief, they lead towards the long term distress as the OCD is continually strengthened.