Do you or someone close to you repeat everything over and over again or are you overly cautious about cleanliness? These may not be normal habits but signs of OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder). Understand its causes, symptoms and easy treatment options so that you can get help in time.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: There are some brain-related diseases that gradually become a part of our behavior and we are unable to understand that this could be a sign of a mental problem. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is also one such mental condition, which forces a person to think abnormally and repeat small things of everyday life.

OCD is a mental problem which can be identified and improved by timely treatment. If you or someone close to you is repeatedly behaving in the same way or is overly suspicious and stressed, then these may be symptoms of OCD. Consult a mental specialist as soon as possible. Because in the beginning of the problem, treatment is easy and life can be made normal again.

What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

Dr AK Kumar of the Department of Psychiatry at Ghaziabad's District MMG Hospital explains that OCD or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is a mental disorder in which a person is repeatedly troubled by unwanted thoughts (Obsessions) and to get rid of them, he repeatedly performs certain actions which are called Compulsions. He knows that these thoughts are irrational but still he is unable to stop them. By doing these actions, he gets relief for a while but gradually it takes the form of a habit and then a disease.

Behavior of a person with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

People suffering from OCD remain doubtful about any work and check again and again whether they have switched off the fan, locked the door, turned off the gas or not. They wash their hands again and again. They arrange things or remain so engrossed in cleaning that they do not even feel the difference in the weather. Many people repeatedly delete mobile chats, like to keep the computer screen empty or on seeing something tilted, immediately start correcting it.

The relationship between OCD and perfection

People with OCD may be very intelligent and smart in general, but their tendency towards perfection is so high that they do the same thing over and over again so that it looks 'perfect'. This habit gradually becomes a mental burden and the person feels tired, upset and restless.

What could be the reasons behind OCD?

There is no specific cause of OCD, but experts believe that it can start at any age. Mental conditions such as poor quality of life, mental stress, excessive burden of responsibilities or fear of something bad happening can cause it. According to research, imbalance of serotonin chemical in the brain, less coordination between some parts of the brain, family history and thinking attitude - all these can promote OCD.

Is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder curable?

• A person suffering from OCD needs to be understood first. Trying to force them to change their habits by scolding them or insisting on them can backfire. They speak openly only when they are sure that no one will make fun of their feelings.
• Treatment usually includes anti-depressant medications, which help balance the amount of serotonin in the brain. Along with this, psychotherapy, especially CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), is also given so that the person can learn to control his thoughts and behavior.
• Ignoring OCD can be dangerous, as it gradually reduces the quality of life. Mental problems are as serious as physical illnesses and are treatable. Therefore, as soon as any symptoms appear, it is very important to consult a mental health specialist immediately.