Some people suffer from certain rituals, such as repeatedly checking if the house door is closed or the stove is turned off before going to bed, or even excessive handwashing and hygiene habits. So are these just habits or signs of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
To answer this, German psychiatrist and psychotherapist Tobias Hornig stated that the decisive factors for the clinical classification of OCD include the level of distress associated with the compulsive behavior and the time it takes.
He added that individuals with OCD experience an intense urge to think or do something against their will, seeing it as pointless or even harmful. For example, a person with OCD arranges their bag not for pleasure, but out of deep anxiety, feeling compelled to do it repeatedly to prevent an internal catastrophe.
Anyone who wants to know if they have compulsive behaviors that require treatment should honestly examine their behavior. A doctor should be consulted immediately when internal anxiety dictates behavior, when social relationships are negatively affected, or when a person feels ashamed of their actions and hides them from others.
A complete cure for OCD is not possible, but symptoms can be reduced to an acceptable level with specialized support, enabling a return to a normal life. Psychotherapy and medication are treatment options for OCD, and cognitive-behavioral therapy is often also helpful. Additionally, self-help groups provide patients with a space to share their experiences.
