Question: What is OCD, and what is your best treatment advice?

Dr. Hibberd's Answer:

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by repetitive thoughts that are often followed with predictable behavior patterns.

All is well until these obsessions or compulsions increase in number, or become so ritualized that normal behavior and socialization becomes adversely affected by the habitual behavior pattern. Some view victims of OCD as unusual, and others pass them off as simply "the way they are."

Medication is available to help its victims, and often psychiatric consultation and medical management is advisable.

OCD can become more and more time consuming to its victims, and early interventional therapy is advised, before the ritualized abnormal behavior patterns become so established as to interfere with daily activities and family affairs.

Some feel significant relief with psycho-pharmaceuticals, but most require CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) to effectively manage their OCD. Not all psychiatrists are skilled in CBT, so ask your primary care doctor for a referral before simple OCD becomes an overwhelming issue in your life.