Obsessive Compulsive and Related Disorders

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, commonly termed OCD, is the title given to the condition in which the person develops intrusive thoughts, images or impulses (e.g. obsessions), usually alongside associated compulsive behaviours. OCD is a treatable disorder that can affect both males and females of all ages. It is the fourth most common mental health disorder and is diagnosed as often as diabetes or asthma. Often, individual sufferers may be in denial, or too embarrassed about admitting their obsessions and seeking the help they require. An obsession develops when a thought, image or impulse repeatedly comes to mind, often disrupting other thoughts and mental focus.

While Obsessive Compulsive Disorders may be well known, the other disorders in the obsessive-compulsive spectrum are less well-known. Five disorders in the obsessive-compulsive spectrum form a single diagnostic category called obsessive-compulsive and related disorders (OCRDs):

1. Obsessive-compulsive disorder; 
2. Body dysmorphic disorder;
3. Hoarding disorder; 
4. Trichotillomania (hair-pulling); and,
5. Excoriation (skin-picking). The disorders in this OCRDs category share similar symptoms, have a similar age of onset, similar progression and course, co-occur together frequently, have similar family histories, and share similar treatment response. Genetic and biological studies further support a relationship between these disorders. If you require psychological treatment for OCD or related conditions, please follow this link www.ocdclinicbrisbane.com.au