Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Definition: This is a mental diagnosis that is characterized by a person who has recurring obsessions (intrusive ideas or images) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors or mental acts) that interfere with life. People with severe OCD tend to spend an inordinate amount of time with their obsessions and compulsions and occasionally have difficulty leading productive lives. OCD can occur at the same time as another anxiety disorder, such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and is treated with similar methods (psychotherapy and medication). For more, read this article on differentiating between GAD and OCD.