Although mild obsessions and compulsions are typical, they become problematic if they interfere with normal functioning or cause severe distress in one's life.
- Obsessions are ideas, images or impulses that are often repulsive and intrude on one's consciousness. Obsessional thoughts range from fear of harming others, being infected or infecting others, doubt about behaviors (or conditions) being harmful or unaccepted by self or others. Often these thoughts include worry about things being clean enough or in order.
- Compulsions are actions or rituals that act as coping strategies aimed at turning off the obsessive thoughts (thus reducing anxiety). Handwashing, counting, checking, touching or excessive cleaning are common compulsions.
Example: A person constantly worries about food contamination and becoming infected (obsession) so repeatedly checks food labels, over and over again (compulsion).
You now have a basic understanding of Anxiety Disorders, and if needed, can follow up with a mental health professional to explore how you or your loved one can best be evaluated and treated.
