Obsessive Compulsive Disorders (OCD)

OCD is a mental health disorder that can be defined as experiencing frequent, distressing or unwanted thoughts, ideas, or sensations that are often referred to as obsessions. These obsessions can cause a person to partake in repetitive behaviors, which are often referred to as compulsions. Often, these obsessions and compulsions can begin to adversely impact a person’s ability to live a high-quality life.

While there are a multitude of people who deal with distressing thoughts and repetitive behaviors, the obsessions and compulsions associated with OCD will disrupt the person’s ability to perform daily tasks, socialize, or enjoy their life.

People with OCD often experience a frequent and constant need to double- and triple-check everything that they do to ensure that it was done properly. Is the door locked? Did I turn off the stove?

Excessive hand washing to the point of sore hands from an irrational fear of germs. Practices like washing your hands after going to the bathroom are important. However, Individuals with OCD compulsively washing their hands at every opportunity.

Everything must be perfectly organized, placed a certain way, in a certain order, etc.

Repetitive behaviours such as touching objects, tapping, repeating words.