What is obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)?

Obsessive compulsive disorder - or OCD - is characterized by frequent obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are intrusive thoughts, images, or impulses that a person experiences, but does not want to. As such, these obsessions produce much anxiety and stress. Compulsions, on the other hand, are behaviors that the person carries out in order to neutralize or avoid the unwanted obsessions. But, these compulsions do not necessarily help - in turn they lead to more anxiety and more obsessions, thus resulting in a vicious cycle of anxiety, obsessions, and compulsions.

I hope you find this information on obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) helpful. Please keep in mind that the content of this video is solely for educational purposes. If you suspect that you or someone in your life might have OCD - or any other mental health problem for that matter - please reach out to a mental health professional so that they can conduct a proper evaluation. See below for resources:

*Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapy (ABCT): http://www.abct.org/Help/
*Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA): https://members.adaa.org/page/FATMain
*Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/th...

**IMPORTANT**

All videos, comments, and materials are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute clinical advice.
If you, or someone you know, needs help immediately:
Call 911 or the corresponding local emergency number
Reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/)
Reach out to the Trevor Project (https://www.thetrevorproject.org/)

I'm the Director of Together CBT, a clinic specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy groups for anxiety in NYC (www.togethercbt.com)

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