OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is when you experience uncontrolled obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.

Obsessive thoughts can include:

• Having fears of losing control and harming yourself or others
• Having fears that something bad might happen if things aren’t in order
• Having worries about harm coming to yourself of others
• Having disturbing images or thoughts
• Having violent thoughts
• Having fears of losing or not having things you might need
•  

Compulsive behaviors are repetitive activities a person may do to reduce the anxiety caused by obsessive thoughts. They can include: 

• Repeatedly checking things such as locks, appliances, and switches
• Excessive washing or cleaning
• Repeated counting or doing other senseless things to reduce anxiety
• Accumulating “junk” such as old newspapers or empty food containers

What can I do to manage Obsessive-compulsive disorder?

You can do the following to help you manage the obsessive-compulsive disorder

• Learn and read about obsessive-compulsive disorder
• Stay away from drugs and alcohol
• Replace anxious thoughts with positive ones
• Learn how to relax
• Eat healthily and exercise
• Identify your triggers and try avoiding them
• Talk to a trusted friend, adult, or family 
• Seek help from a professional counselor 
• Do something fun or nice for yourself
• Spend time with people who make you feel safe and good about yourself
• Get enough sleep
• Avoid alcohol and drug abuse 
• Don’t blame yourself 

If you're worried about your obsessive-compulsive disorder, it's important to seek help as soon as possible.