A condition where an individual becomes overly preoccupied with these intrusive thoughts and attaches meaning to them , these thoughts are usually distressing/anxiety provoking and ‘compulsions’ are actions that are taken to try and reduce anxiety. These compulsions (e.g. listing, repeating set phrases, counting) can be both internal or external. These obsessions and compulsions consume a lot of a person’s significant time and energy. They can disrupt a person’s social and personal life. Symptoms vary based on specific obsessive thoughts, such as fear of contamination or the need for order. Rituals such as repeatedly washing hands and arranging things in a specific pattern are performed to alleviate anxious feelings.
