Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that causes people to experience recurring, unwanted, and intrusive thoughts, images, or urges (obsessions), and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). People with OCD can't control or stop these thoughts and behaviors, and they can significantly interfere with daily life.
Some examples of obsessions and compulsions include:
- Contamination: Fear of dirt or germs, or a compulsion to clean
- Symmetry and ordering: A need to have things lined up in a specific way, or compulsive counting
- Ruminations and intrusive thoughts: Obsessing over a line of thought, which may include violent or disturbing thoughts
- Checking: Constantly checking locks, the alarm system, or light switches