The most common OCD compulsions
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, affects millions across the globe but is still a very much misunderstood condition. The official explanation is that is chronic anxiety which manifests into obsessions which present themselves as compulsions. Or in layman’s terms, an illogical fear that something bad will happen if you don’t do an action so many times.
If you think somebody close to you may be developing OCD, watch for the signs. Sufferers of OCD are generally obsessed with cleanliness and one of the most common symptoms is the constant washing of hands. We’re talking at least a dozen times a day here, and if they are sitting watching TV and keep jumping up to wash them, you know that there’s a problem. Still on the hygiene theme, compulsive teethe cleaning is another common sign. This one can be tricky as they can do this in private when you think are in the loo. Watch out for the toothpaste and mouthwash running out much quicker than normal, or that the batteries need replacing in their electric toothbrush much sooner than anyone elses.
Another common compulsion is turning off and on the lights, or trying the door handle a set number of times before they are satisfied it is locked. Don’t despair if your loved one is displaying these signs, help is available. Get them to a doctor, going with them is the best bet as they may or many not know what they are doing. A doctor may feel that therapy combined with medication, or just the latter, is needed depending on the extent of the OCD. Be supportive, and you will help them beat it.
Tags: mouthwash, toothpaste