Obsessive Compulsive Disorder widely known as OCD is a mental health condition wherein a person suffers from continuous recurrent intrusive thoughts that lead to repetitive almost ritualistic behaviors (compulsions) due to fear. These compulsions make it hard for people with OCD to interact socially and perform daily tasks efficiently. OCD is a life-long struggle but the symptoms may fluctuate in intensity. People often say that “I have OCD because I like to clean and because I worry constantly” or “I must be OCD because am obsessed with cleaning.” Although these are some symptoms it is essential to know that OCD is much more than being a perfectionist and a clean person. It is an extreme condition that can disrupt the everyday routine of people. These obsessions in OCD are unwanted and people suffering from OCD do not enjoy doing these rituals instead they do it because they feel the need.
The average onset of OCD is 19 and hardly any individual develops OCD after 40. Symptoms of the same can usually be seen during teenage and/or during childhood.
Note: You can be diagnosed with OCD at any time in your life but it is rare to see people develop OCD after the age of 35. Data retrieved from The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
As the name suggests the most common features of OCD are obsession and compulsion. Obsession and Compulsion in OCD can sound like, “I should at least take a bath at least 5 times per day to keep myself clean” “I need to avoid people what if I catch their germs” or “It doesn’t feel right if I don’t arrange all my books in a particular order and particular set wise”
Though intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors are common features in OCD, they are not enough to warrant a diagnosis, so if you see these features in yourself or someone else, it doesn’t mean you have OCD. If you feel that all these signs are getting out of hand and if you aren’t able to manage them efficiently you should seek professional help, as it might affect your life, work, and relationships with people around you.
Disclaimer: Although these are the common signs found in people suffering from OCD it is important to know that this is not an exhaustive list and if you think you are suffering from OCD then it is advisable that you seek medical attention as soon as possible. This can include going to a trustworthy therapist or psychiatrist who can help you.
– Urveez Kakalia and Sakshi Merai.