Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is characterised by repetitive intrusive thoughts, images and actions which are beyond one’s control and are considered meaningless by the individual himself. Individual acknowledges that these thoughts and actions are his own but is not able to control them and hence may have severe anxiety and guilt for the same. Patient may indulge in repeated handwashing, bathing and cleaning rituals, may keep checking doors, latches, locks or gas stove, may recite some numbers or phrases repeatedly, may have aggressive or sexual thoughts against self or someone else. Blasphemous thoughts are common too.
Like other mental illnesses, OCD also happens because of chemical imbalance in the brain networks.
Effective treatment for OCD is available in terms of drugs and talk therapy.