Obsessive-compulsive disorder

How does the DSM-5 categorise OCD?

Obsessions and compulsions

What is trichotillomania?

Compulsive hair pulling

What is hoarding disorder?

Compulsive gathering of possessions and inability to part with them

What is excoriation disorder?

Compulsive skin-picking

What is an obsession?

A persistent thought/idea/image experienced repeatedly that feels intrusive and causes anxiety

What is a compulsion?

A repetitive and rigid behaviour/mental act that a person feels driven to perform in order to prevent or reduce anxiety

What are the behavioural characteristics of OCD?

• Repetitive compulsions

• Compulsive behaviours to manage anxiety

• Avoiding situations that trigger anxiety - can interfere with leading a regular life if one avoids ordinary activities

What are the emotional characteristics of OCD?

• Anxiety and distress

• Accompanying depression

• Guilt and disgust - external or internal

What are the cognitive characteristics of OCD?

• Obsessive thoughts (90% of those with OCD)

• Coping strategies - used to manage anxiety but seen as abnormal and distracts from daily tasks

• Awareness that obsessions and compulsions are irrational

• They tend to be constantly alert for potential hazards and have catastrophic thoughts about worst case scenarios

Fun (or not so fun) facts about OCD!!!

• 1 in 50 people suffer from OCD

• Equally common in males and females

• 4th most common psychological disorder in the UK

• Typical onset from late adolescence to early adulthood

• Many do not seek help and learn to hide their condition

• Many are unable too adequately as their lives are taken up by rituals