preview

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder ( Ocd )

Good Essays

Introduction
Obsessive compulsive disorder is influenced by neurological factors with symptoms such as repeating steps, continuously washing their hands, and having a fear of objects like germs. Although there is no cure, there are treatments such as medication and therapy that can help lessen the patient’s anxiety and discomfort.
What is obsessive compulsive disorder?
Obsessive compulsive disorder also known as OCD, is an anxiety disorder. People who have this disorder have repetitive thoughts and behaviors that they cannot control. A chemical imbalance of the neurotransmitter serotonin throws off communication in the brain. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (2015), it can also cause impulses that manifest through obsessions, ideas, and images. The next part of this disorder is compulsions. These are the behaviors that people who have this disorder perform in order to get rid of the uncontrollable thoughts and feelings. How common is OCD?
A study done by the American Academy of Family Physicians states that around three million Americans between the ages of 18-54 have this disorder. This disorder can impact both men and women equally.
Causes
According to an article done by Lifescript (2016), there are many different factors that can cause obsessive compulsive disorder. The causes can be from chemicals in your brain, your surrounding environment, and psychological factors. Neurological factors can cause OCD such as, Tourette’s which are motor and

Get Access