Also known as
OCD, obsessive-compulsive disorder is a neurotic mental illness in which intrusive, negative thoughts and/or impulses which regularly enter the person'
s mind (obsessions) are counteracted by repetitive acts or rituals performed to alleviate the
anxiety and general distress created by these obsessions. It is possible to qualify for a diagnosis of
OCD if only obsessions or compulsions are present, although the vast majority have both.