Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce the anxiety caused by those thoughts. Common obsessions include fears of contamination, harm, or losing control, while compulsions may involve excessive cleaning, checking, counting, or repeating routines. Though people with OCD often recognize that their thoughts and behaviors are irrational, the urge to perform compulsions can feel overwhelming and difficult to resist. Over time, OCD can significantly interfere with daily functioning, relationships, and quality of life.

Mental health therapy is highly effective in treating OCD, particularly when using evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). CBT helps individuals identify and challenge the distorted thoughts that fuel their obsessions, while ERP involves gradually facing feared situations without engaging in compulsions, helping the brain learn that anxiety will decrease naturally over time. Therapists may also incorporate mindfulness strategies to help manage distressing thoughts without reacting to them. In addition, therapies like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) can support emotional resilience and self-compassion. With the right therapeutic support, individuals with OCD can learn to manage symptoms, reduce compulsive behaviors, and regain control over their lives.