Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD):

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions), and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to alleviate anxiety or prevent perceived harm.

Define:

OCD is a chronic psychiatric disorder marked by the presence of obsessions and compulsions that significantly interfere with daily functioning and cause distress.

Etiology:

The etiology of OCD involves genetic predispositions, neurobiological factors (such as abnormalities in serotonin levels), environmental influences, and psychological factors, contributing to its development and severity.

Prevalence:

OCD affects approximately 2-3% of the global population, making it one of the most prevalent mental health disorders. It can occur in individuals of any age but often begins during adolescence or early adulthood.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of OCD include recurrent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) related to contamination, harm, symmetry, or taboo subjects, as well as repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions) aimed at reducing anxiety or preventing perceived harm.

Treatment:

Treatment for OCD typically involves cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), particularly exposure and response prevention (ERP), medication (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors or SSRIs), and in severe cases, neurosurgical procedures such as deep brain stimulation (DBS). Effective treatment aims to alleviate symptoms, improve functioning, and enhance overall quality of life.