What is OCD?​

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a common mental health condition that causes unwanted, repetitive thoughts (called obsessions) and urges to perform certain actions or rituals (called compulsions). These thoughts and behaviors can feel intense, distressing, and difficult to control—even when you know they don't make logical sense.
Examples include:
  • Fears about germs or contamination
  • Repeated checking (like locks or appliances)
  • Needing things to be arranged “just right”
  • Disturbing thoughts that go against your values or beliefs
  • Counting, praying, or repeating words silently to reduce anxiety
OCD is not about being “neat” or “organized”—it is a medical condition that can affect anyone and often causes a great deal of distress.

See the videos on the right from the Harvard Medical School faculty. 

What Causes OCD?​

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OCD is believed to develop from a combination of:
  • Brain function and chemistry: Certain brain areas, such as the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and a circuit called the cortico-striatal loop, are involved in regulating fear and decision-making. In OCD, this circuit can become overactive.
  • Imbalance in brain chemicals: Neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine play a role in how the brain processes anxiety and repetitive thoughts.
  • Genetics: OCD tends to run in families.
  • Stress or trauma: Major life changes, stress, or illness can trigger or worsen symptoms in people who are predisposed.
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How Common is OCD?
OCD affects about 2 to 3 out of every 100 people. It often begins in childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood, and it can happen to anyone—regardless of age, gender, or background.
How is OCD Treated?
​The good news is that OCD is treatable, and many people learn to manage their symptoms and regain control of their lives.
 1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with ERP
  • The most effective therapy for OCD is called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
  • It involves gradually facing your fears in a safe way, while learning to resist the urge to do compulsions.
  • Over time, this retrains your brain to feel less anxious and break the cycle of obsession and compulsion.
2. Medication
  • Certain medications, especially SSRIs like fluoxetine (Prozac) or sertraline (Zoloft), can help regulate the brain chemicals involved in OCD.
  • Medication may reduce the intensity of symptoms and make therapy more effective.
3. Education and Support
  • Understanding how OCD works can reduce shame and self-blame.
  • Family involvement and support groups can also help create a more supportive environment.
4. Advanced Options (for severe cases)
  • For people who don’t respond to traditional treatments, options like TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) or Deep Brain Stimulation may be considered by specialists.

You're Not Alone. OCD can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone, and help is available. With the right support, tools, and treatment plan, many people learn to manage OCD and live full, meaningful lives.
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This is the book Mark uses in his practice to treat OCD.

Worksheets

​E&RP MOTIVATOR I-A: What Have I Lost To OCD1
​Obsession and Compulsion Log
Assessments
Obsessional Beliefs Questionnaire (OBQ-44)
​COMPULSIVE ACTIVITIES CHECKLIST1
YALE-BROWN OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE SCALE (Y-BOCS) - Clinician guided assessment only