OCD is characterized by the presence of obsessions and/or compulsions. Obsessions are repetitive, unwanted, uncontrollable, and persistent thoughts (such as doubt about whether something they have done is good enough, or fear of germs), urges (such as saying something nasty), or mental images (such as violent scenes) that appear in the mind of the patient, causing intense anxiety and suffering
Compulsions are behaviors a person does to relieve the distress they feel because of the obsessions. They can be overt (observable) or covert (hidden). Compulsions are repetitive or stereotyped (ritualistic) behaviours, performed in order to neutralize an obsessional fear, and therefore relieve anxiety. Compulsions are often time consuming and distressing for the child to carry out.
OCD has a substantial effect on quality of life and level of functioning. It is often a chronic disorder (60% to 70% of cases) and is likely to persist if not treated effectively. OCD affecting 1–3% of the population worldwide. Although it has been considered to be rare in children and adolescents, studies have reported prevalence rates of 1–3% in children and young people aged 5–15 years.
OCD has an equal incidence in both males and females and can occur in children as young as 5 years old. It is uncommon for people to get OCD for the first time after the age of 30.
There are several disorders that seem to be related to OCD. They share similar features such as intrusive thoughts and/or repetitive behaviors. Obsessive-Compulsive Related disorders include:
• Body Dysmorphic Disorder
• Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling Disorder)
• Excoriation (Skin- Picking) Disorder
• Hoarding Disorder
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
