Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is characterized by irrational thoughts and fears (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors (compulsions). It is possible that only obsessions or only compulsions are observed
During the disorder, the patient may not realize that his obsessions are unjustified and try to ignore them or cope with them. However, this only increases stress and anxiety Ultimately, a person tries to fulfill a compulsion to overcome stressful feelings
Obsessive-compulsive disorder usually develops around a specific topic, such as a fear of being contaminated by germs. In order for the patient to overcome this fear, he washes his hands very often until the clusters break and hurt. Despite trying to ignore the fears and thoughts, they still come back This process creates a vicious cycle characteristic of this disorder
The causes of obsessive-compulsive disorder are not fully known Important theories about causes:
- Biology The disorder may be caused by changes in the body's or brain's natural chemical processes A genetic component may also be involved, although specific genes associated with the disease have not been identified
- Environmental factors Some environmental factors, such as infection, have been suggested to be linked to the development of the disease, although further research is needed to confirm this theory.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder symptoms typically include both obsessions and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). However, only one of them may be noted
One-third of people with the disorder have jerky, short-and-long movements and vocalizations.
Symptoms of Fear and Obsessions Obsessions in the disorder are repetitive, persistent, and unwanted thoughts and images that cause stress and anxiety. The patient tries to escape from thoughts through compulsions Despite attempts to shift thoughts to another topic, such obsessions still return on their own
Obsessions are usually related to specific themes, such as:
- Fear of contamination and dirt
- A desire to arrange things symmetrically
- Aggressive distressing thoughts about harming oneself or others
- Unwanted thoughts, including aggressive ones, related to religion or With such behaviors, patients replace the anxiety and fears associated with obsessions However, compulsions do not bring relief to the patient and only temporarily relieve anxiety
During obsessive thoughts, the patient may develop rituals or rules that regulate the anxieties caused by the fears. Such compulsions, as a rule, are not rationally related to the prevention of the patient's obsessive threat
Both obsessions and compulsions concern specific topics such as:
- washing and cleaning
- counting
- checking
- seeking reassurance
- following a strict daily routine
Symptoms generally worsen as stress increases Obsessive-compulsive disorder, which is considered a permanent illness, may be so severe and pervasive that it causes the patient to become incapacitated.
Most adults understand that obsessions and compulsions are irrational and unreasonable, but children don't understand what's going on.
When to see a doctor
There is a difference between perfectionism and OCD Obsessive-compulsive disorder thoughts aren't just excessive worry about life's problems. On the contrary, the patient demands such an order and worries about such fears, which do not represent a real danger
See a doctor or psychiatrist if obsessions and compulsions are affecting your quality of life People with the disorder may feel ashamed or embarrassed about their condition, but may benefit from treatment.
