4 Things You Should Know About OCD

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a complex disorder experienced by 1% to 3% of adolescents in America. While a lot can be said about this common mental illness, here are four key facts you need to know.

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It’s Multifaceted

There are two parts to OCD: obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are unrealistic thoughts or feelings, whereas compulsions are uncontrollable actions that are often repeated to reduce stress and fear. Photo by dsovercash

There’s a Need for Control

A person with OCD feels a need to control a situation through their compulsions. They will not be satisfied if left to obsess about the thing they want to change, but instead will feel empowered through specific actions or rituals.

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There are Different Compulsions

People with OCD all have different rituals they perform, such as ordering, counting, washing and organizing.

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It Can Be Treated

It often feels like OCD controls a person life, but it doesn’t have to. By developing coping mechanisms, seeing a therapist and even taking medication, those suffering from OCD can find ways to overcome this disorder.

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Feature Image: CircoD