[Medical Q&A] Do you understand obsessive-compulsive disorder?

Planner: Chinese Medical Association

Reviewer: Si Tianmei, Chief Physician, Peking University Sixth Hospital

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a common mental disorder worldwide. The World Health Organization even lists it as one of the top ten disabling diseases.

1. What are the core characteristics of obsessive-compulsive disorder?

Obsessions and/or compulsions. Obsessions are recurring, unwanted, intrusive thoughts, doubts, images, or impulses that appear in the mind over and over again. Patients often consider these intrusive thoughts to be irrational or excessive, not only contrary to their values ​​but also painful, and try to resist them. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental activities that are secondary to and driven by obsessions. Most compulsions are involuntary but rarely resisted. Compulsions can be either overt behaviors that can be detected (such as repeatedly checking whether the door is locked) or implicit mental activities that are not detected (such as repeating a specific phrase in the mind).

2. What are the differences between men and women in terms of obsessive compulsive disorder?

Men and women are equally likely to have OCD, but there are differences in how it manifests. Women are more likely to have compulsive cleaning and washing, while men may have more symptoms related to sexual content, "magic numbers," or obsessive-compulsive symptoms.

Understanding the symptoms and characteristics of OCD can help us better identify and support those suffering from this disorder. If you or someone close to you experiences the above symptoms, please seek professional help immediately. Correct understanding and timely treatment are essential to improving the quality of life of people with OCD.