OCD

• Typically those with ocd feel compelled to repeat a behaviour such as handwashing.
• Compulsions are used to reduce anxiety such as handwashing as a response to obsessive fear of germs.
• Many people with ocd tend to avoid situations that may trigger anxiety - Avoidance
• OCD involves powerful anxiety that accompanies both obsessions and compulsions.
• OCD is often accompanied by depression, so anxiety can be accompanied by low mood and lack of enjoyment in activities.
• OCD sometimes involve other negative emotions such as irrational guilt or disgust - could be over minor moral issues or disgust towards 'dirt'
• Most people with ocd experience obsessive thoughts that are often repeatative. These vary from person to person by are always unpleasant.
• Many people adopt cognitive coping strategies such as mediating to help anxiety.