Define Obsessive Compulsive Disorder – 10 Key Points

The simplest way to define obsessive compulsive disorder is through its symptoms. That is, a person with the disorder displays either or both obsessions (thoughts, images, impulses) and compulsions (habits, rituals, behavior patterns). To define obsessive compulsive disorder it is necessary to consider 10 key facts.

1. OCD is a real disease. When we define obsessive compulsive disorder this way, this means it's treatable with therapy and medications.
2. In the mind of a person with OCD, compulsions may be the only way to get rid of nagging thoughts or worries.
3. What distinguishes OCD from an everyday worry or habit is that the sufferer can't control his/her thoughts and actions. So we define obsessive compulsive disorder as the sufferer's inability to stop the cycle between obsession and compulsion.
4. Even when compulsive rituals can only give the sufferer temporary relief, he/she sees it as THE solution to the problem. So not performing the ritual will only lead to distress and anxiety, which also makes the disorder worse.
5. Sufferers themselves define obsessive compulsive disorder thoughts and habits as making no sense whatsoever, and yet are unable to stop the vicious circle.
6. The disease can seriously diminish the sufferer's quality of life. Severe problems in relationships, at work, and in school often define obsessive compulsive disorder.
7. OCD undoubtedly recurs in its sufferers. One may be rid of it, but it may come back after a time. Various things can cause this backslide, insufficient therapy, discontinued treatment or medication, upheavals in the person's life, etc.
8. While scientists have named certain triggers or causes to define obsessive compulsive disorder, its exact cause is as yet unknown.
9. No studies have, so far, shown that OCD is caused by a traumatic experience during childhood (although OCD often starts at a young age). Family problems haven't been shown to cause it either.
10. There are, admittedly, triggers such as having a newborn, life changes, or abuse that make OCD symptoms more pronounced, but these haven't been proven as causes.

Only a qualified doctor or therapist can accurately define obsessive compulsive disorder in your situation. These qualified professionals can tell you whether you suffer from OCD, an anxiety disorder, an eating disorder, or depression — all of which have been shown to be associated with OCD symptoms.

Warning: No matter how credible an advertisement for OCD prescription medicine seems, never self-diagnose or -prescribe. A doctor may agree to give you a prescription if you say you have OCD, but you will have to be responsible for its benefits AND consequences yourself. Adding this responsibility on top of your illness isn't a wise thing to do.