Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Insight People with OCD show a range of insight into the senselessness of their obsessions. Often, especially when they are not actually having an obsession, they can recognize that their obsessions and compulsions are unrealistic. At other times they may be unsure about their fears or even believe strongly in their validity. Resistance Most people with OCD struggle to banish their unwanted, obsessive thoughts and to prevent themselves from engaging in compulsive behaviors. Many are able to keep their obsessive-compulsive symptoms under control during the hours when they are at work or attending school. But over the months or years, resistance may weaken, and when this happens, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder- pg. 4 OCD may become so severe that time-consuming rituals take over the sufferers' lives, making it impossible for them to continue activities outside their homes. Shame and Secrecy OCD sufferers often attempt to hide their disorder rather than seek help. Often they are successful in concealing their obsessive-compulsive symptoms from friends and coworkers. An unfortunate consequence of this secrecy is that people with OCD usually do not receive professional help until years after the onset of their disease. By that time, they may have learned to work their lives -- and family members' lives -- around the rituals. Taking "Forever" To Get Things Done Sometimes because of compulsions, it can take "forever to get things done. It may be necessary to check the back door seven times before leaving the house, to get in and out of the car three times before starting it, to walk backwards in a room, to touch all of the drawer knobs in the bathroom before washing, and so forth. Long-Lasting Symptoms OCD tends to last for years, even decades. The symptoms may become less severe from time to time, and there may be long intervals when the symptoms are mild, but for most individuals with OCD, the symptoms are chronic.