OCD

• Behavioural characteristics of OCD

  Repetitive compulsions- eg Hand washing, counting or hoarding.

  Compulsions reduce anxiety- eg hand washing is a response to an obsessive fear of germs.

  Avoidance- to reduce anxiety they keep away from situations that make them anxious. Eg avoiding taking the bins out due to the fear of germs.
• Emotional characteristics of OCD

  Anxiety and distress- unpleasant scary and overwhelming.

  Accompanying depression- low mood and lack of enjoyment of activities. Compulsive behaviour can bring temporary relief for anxiety.

  Guilt and disgust- negative emotions such as irrational guilt, and disgust which can be at the person themself or at something external like dirt.
• What percentage of people with OCD struggle with obsessive thoughts?

  90%
• What are common themes of obsessive thoughts in OCD?

  Worries about contamination or safety
• How do cognitive coping strategies manifest in religious individuals with OCD?

  They may pray or meditate to manage anxiety
• Why might cognitive coping strategies be viewed as abnormal by others?

  They distract from everyday tasks
• What do people with OCD recognize about their thoughts and compulsions?

  They know they are irrational
• What tendency do people with OCD have regarding their thoughts?

  They always think the worst
• What does hyper vigilance mean in the context of OCD?

  Being constantly alert to potential hazards
• What is a common emotional response for people with OCD when experiencing obsessive thoughts?

  Excessive anxiety