Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a condition in which a person is troubled by unwanted, repeated thoughts (obsessions) and feels driven to carry out certain actions (compulsions) to relieve the distress they cause. When these take up much of the day, they interfere with work, studies and relationships.
Common obsessions
- Fear of germs or contamination
- Doubts, such as whether the door is locked or the stove is off
- Need for symmetry, order or exactness
- Unwanted aggressive, sexual or religious thoughts
Common compulsions
- Repeated washing or cleaning
- Checking again and again
- Counting, arranging or repeating actions in a fixed way
- Mental rituals such as repeating phrases or prayers
When to seek help
Many people have occasional rituals. It is OCD when the thoughts and actions are time-consuming (more than about an hour a day), distressing and difficult to stop. People often hide the problem out of embarrassment, but it is common and treatable.
Treatment
The best-proven treatments are a form of cognitive behavioural therapy called exposure and response prevention, and in some people medicines such as SSRIs. Homeopathic treatment is individualised and can be used as supportive care; please continue any prescribed treatment unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Learn more
To discuss your situation with a Welling Homeopathy doctor, contact a clinic or call +91 80 80 850 950 for a consultation in person or online.
Disclaimer: this page is for information only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Results vary from person to person.
