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Obsessive Compulsive disorder
Background
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is the name given to a condition in which people experience repetitive and upsetting thoughts and/or behaviours. OCD has two main features: obsessions and compulsions.
Obsessions refer to involuntary thoughts, often unpleasant, about things such as contamination and harm to others; sometimes these thoughts are sexual, aggressive or religious.
Compulsions are repetitive, stereotyped, unnecessary behaviours such as constant checking and repeating actions, e.g. washing. Compulsions can also be mental rituals such as repeating words or phrases, counting or saying a prayer. These thoughts and actions are behaviours that people feel they have to do, even when they do not want to. Often people try to stop themselves from doing these things, but feel frustrated or worried unless they can finish.
The cause of OCD is unknown. Anxiety is a central symptom. The latest research suggests that the brain chemical serotonin may be involved.
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