Psynapse Clinic

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by a cycle of obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that repeatedly pop into a person’s mind, causing significant anxiety or distress. Common obsessions include fears of contamination, doubts about having locked a door, or a need for perfect symmetry.

To alleviate the distress caused by these obsessions, individuals with OCD engage in compulsions. These are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that they feel driven to perform, often rigidly and according to specific rules. Examples include excessive handwashing, repeatedly checking things, ordering objects, or silently repeating phrases.

While these compulsions might offer temporary relief, the obsessions soon return, perpetuating the cycle. This can consume a significant amount of time and severely interfere with daily life, relationships, and responsibilities. The exact causes are not fully understood, but a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors is thought to contribute.

• Treatment typically involves psychotherapy, especially Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), and medication.