Conditions

OCD

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, a condition involving repeated unwanted thoughts and behaviors meant to ease the distress they cause.

OCD, or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, involves repeated unwanted thoughts, images, or urges (obsessions) and behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions) that a person feels driven to do in order to ease the distress those thoughts cause. Several therapy approaches with strong evidence can help, often including a structured form of exposure work paired with skills for tolerating uncertainty.

This glossary is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have questions about your mental health, please speak with a licensed professional.