Obsessive compulsive disorder is a disorder that compels victims to have thoughts that they would not have ordinarily. It also forces people to repeat the same acts over and over again. Even though we all have routines that we follow everyday, people with Obsessive compulsive disorder "obsess" over mundane tasks. This eventually interferes with their everyday lives. A person with Obsessive compulsive disorder has absolutely no control over his actions. People with Obsessive compulsive disorder realize what they are doing, but they do not have the ability to stop it. Their compulsions drive them. Experts believe that there are millions of people in the world who have obsessive compulsive disorder and do not even know about it.

What are Obsessions?

When a person with Obsessive compulsive disorder gets an idea, even if it is just a fleeting thought, it becomes the focus of their life for a long time. An idea or picture that goes through the mind of a person with Obsessive compulsive disorder quickly turns into an obsession. The person with Obsessive compulsive disorder cannot control what he or she does which at times may be dangerous.

People with Obsessive compulsive disorder did not choose this disorder. They are well aware of what they are doing, but they cannot stop themselves from doing it. The frustration that these people feel is enormous. They are not able to control any aspect of their lives.

A person who has Obsessive compulsive disorder can do nothing to stop what is happening to him or her. It does not matter what they do to try and control themselves; it will not work. People with Obsessive compulsive disorder are embarrassed about their disorder. Unlike other anxiety disorders which allow them to be masked; Obsessive compulsive disorder cannot be kept hidden rather it is pretty apparent. There are treatments available there for Obsessive compulsive disorder but it requires the cooperation of the patient. Treatment could last for years, and if the person with Obsessive compulsive disorder is not completely dedicated to the treatment it will not work.

When people with Obsessive compulsive disorder have the compulsive thoughts; they begin to feel nervous and scared. They try to get rid of the feelings, but cannot. They end up giving in to these feeling. This tends to make them feel inadequate and in turn they get very angry at themselves. After awhile, there is a whole new set of problems with more dedication.

People with Obsessive compulsive disorder are taught to make a daily "Chore" list and they need to stick to it. They are not allowed to vary off of the list at all. This is the first step in overcoming the obsessive compulsive disorder.

When Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Strikes?

It is almost impossible to predict to a person with Obsessive compulsive disorder when it will strike. It could be as simple as getting their hands dirty. For some with Obsessive compulsive disorder it is the recurrence of the same numbers, or pictures, or words. A perfect example would be the character in the movie rain man. A person with Obsessive compulsive disorder needs constant reassurance to feel like they are worth something.

What is the Rate of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?

For many years, Obsessive compulsive disorder was thought to be rare. Nobody kept track of the actual numbers because people with Obsessive compulsive disorder would hide their problem to avoid embarrassment. It wasn't until recent years that Obsessive compulsive disorder was recognized as a legitimate illness.

Studies have shown 3 million Americans of ages ranging from 18 to 54 have Obsessive compulsive disorder. Obsessive compulsive disorder affects men and women equally. It is not a fussy disorder that targets only specific people, but an all around disorder for everyone disorder.

What causes Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?

There is no data to support what causes Obsessive compulsive disorder. Some researchers believe that it is a chemical imbalance in the brain that causes Obsessive compulsive disorder. They also believe that there is not enough serotonin in the body. Serotonin is what carries messages from one nerve cell to the next. It also helps people not to repeat behavior. Research has shown that people with Obsessive compulsive disorder can function better when they take medicines that increase the amount of serotonin in their brain.

Are other illnesses associated with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?

People with Obsessive compulsive disorder never have just one disorder. It is often accompanied by phobias like fear of flying or spiders. Other anxieties are depression, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder also eating disorders and learning disabilities. When there is more than one disorder involved, it is difficult to treat. There are several different ways to treat this disorder. They range from taking medication to doing yoga. to the person who has it Obsessive compulsive disorder is imperative that you speak with your doctor about any questions and concerns that you may have. There is no need to be embarrassed; the doctor has heard it all before.

How is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Treated?

There are several medications that can treat Obsessive-compulsive disorder. All of the drugs can cause side affect such as dry mouth, nausea and drowsiness. In rare occasions it has been known to affect a user's sexual performance. This usually subsides when the body adjusts to the medication. It may be several weeks before a person with Obsessive compulsive disorder notices the benefits of his or her medicine.

There are other types of therapy available for those suffering with obsessive compulsive disorder. Behavioral therapy can also be used to treat Obsessive-compulsive disorder. In behavioral therapy, people face different situations that produce their obsessions and anxiety. They are persuaded not to do the rituals that control their nervous feelings. In order for this method to be effective, a person with Obsessive compulsive disorder must be able to tolerate the high levels of anxiety that can result. Behavioral therapy can diminish the symptoms of Obsessive compulsive disorder or even make them go away with time.

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