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Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder in which patients experience recurrent, persistent thoughts they cannot control (obsessions) and/or an uncontrollable need to perform certain actions over and over (compulsions). Patients usually understand that their thoughts and behaviors are irrational, excessive and interfere with their ability to work and live their lives normally, but cannot free themselves from them. About 2.2 million adult Americans have OCD, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).

There are many people with a compulsive nature, such as those determined to complete tasks early and to the best of their ability or to master a new sport or activity. Though such people may be labeled “compulsive,” this type of behavior does not qualify as a mental disorder and may in fact be a key factor in building self-esteem and contributing to success.

People with OCD take these feelings and actions a step further, repeatedly engaging in thoughts and/or behaviors until the process becomes disruptive to their lives. For example, people who have obsessive thoughts about accidentally burning down their house may feel they must repeatedly return home to make sure they have not left the stove on or the iron plugged in. These people may feel a sense of relief when they have completed the behavior they feel compelled to engage in, but it usually does not last long before the next obsessive thought arises. As the discomfort returns, the patient may feel compelled to repeat the obsessive-compulsive cycle again. Over time, these behaviors may take over a person’s life to an increasing degree and prevent the patient from living a normal life.