What is OCD?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions). These obsessions and compulsions can cause significant distress and interfere with daily life. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), OCD affects approximately 1% of adults in the United States each year [1].
Obsessions are intrusive and unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that repeatedly enter the mind. They can be distressing and lead to anxiety if not addressed. While common obsessions include fears of contamination and concerns about safety, OCD can also manifest in unique forms such as obsessions with numbers or specific sequences [2].
Individuals with OCD may experience a relentless preoccupation with specific numbers or patterns, believing that certain numbers are lucky or unlucky, or that performing actions a certain number of times will prevent harm. This obsession can lead to rituals or compulsions where individuals engage in repetitive behaviors related to these numbers, such as counting, arranging objects in a specific order, or performing actions in sets of a particular number [2].
Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that individuals feel driven to perform in response to their obsessions. These behaviors are aimed at reducing anxiety or preventing a feared outcome. Examples include counting steps, arranging items symmetrically, or repeating actions a certain number of times [2].
OCD can vary in severity, with some individuals experiencing mild symptoms that come and go, while others may have severe symptoms that significantly impact their daily functioning. It often co-occurs with other mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety disorders, or tic disorders [1].
Early recognition and intervention are crucial for managing OCD effectively and improving quality of life for individuals affected by the disorder [2].
[1] National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). (2023). Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd/index.shtml
[2] American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
