Sufferers of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder often find they have unwanted and repeated thoughts, feelings, ideas, sensations (obsessions), or behaviours that make them driven to do something (compulsions).
Often the person carries out the behaviours to get rid of the obsessive thoughts, but this only provides a temporary relief. Not performing these obsessive compulsive rituals can lead to great anxiety and psychological distress. A person’s level of OCD can range from mild to severe, but if left untreated, it can directly interfere with a person’s capability to function in everyday life, and exacerbate other feelings of anxiety and depression, as it can leave one feeling helpless.
Symptoms of OCD typically begin during teen years or early adulthood. It can also develop in individuals as early as preschool age. In severe cases, when OCD impedes on an individual’s ability to function normally, it is imperative to seek professional help, as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is a serious affliction which can lead to an onset of a range of other psychological difficulties.