Obsessive compulsive disorder is unique to each person who lives with it. Generally it can be described as an anxiety disorder which traps a person in an endless cycle of repetitive thoughts. These distressing thoughts, images or fears compel the person to certain behaviors in order to control the thought. While this might work briefly, the thoughts do come back and the behavior repeats. Even though most people with OCD realize their fears are irrational, even senseless, they can’t do anything to make it stop. It can be simply annoying or extremely debilitating depending on each person.
The symptoms vary widely, but some common obsessions might include fear of dirt or germs, fear of causing harm or having accidents, fear of making a mistake, fear of behaving in a socially unacceptable manner, fear of thinking sinful thoughts, need for order or symmetry, and excessive doubt with the need for continual reassurance and positive feedback.
With these fears come these related types of behavior: repeated bathing or hand washing, refusing to shake hands or touch door knobs, continually checking locks, stoves or ovens, constant counting or numbering whether silently or out loud, repeatedly performing the same task, continually arranging items in symmetrical fashion, eating food in a particular order, repeating words or prayers, needing to do things a specific number of times before being able to move to the next task, and sometimes collecting items with no value or meaning but the items seem to provide a sense of security.
If you feel that you or someone you know is exhibiting these symptoms, there is help. Some types of counseling work for some people and antidepressants are also known to help separately or in conjunction with counseling. Repetitive behaviors and thoughts do not have to prevent you from living a full life.
Source: WebMD
