Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and related disorders are a group of conditions characterized by distressing thoughts, urges, or repetitive behaviors that are difficult to control. This category includes obsessive-compulsive disorder, body-focused repetitive behaviors like hair-pulling (trichotillomania) and skin-picking (excoriation disorder), and other conditions involving persistent preoccupations or rituals.
OCD affects approximately 1% to 3% of the global population, making it one of the most prevalent mental health conditions worldwide. In the United States, an estimated 1.2% of adults experience OCD annually, with a lifetime prevalence of about 2.3% . The disorder typically manifests in early adulthood, with more than 80% of cases beginning by this stage. While OCD affects both men and women, some studies suggest a slightly higher prevalence in females. The disorder often co-occurs with other conditions, such as depression and anxiety, and can significantly impact daily functioning and quality of life.
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Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by unwanted, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions) performed to reduce anxiety. These obsessions and compulsions can be time-consuming and distressing, interfering with daily life, work, and relationships.
There are several subtypes of OCD including: harm, contamination, relationship, perinatal, checking, religious/scrupulosity, morality, meta, and sexual orientation.
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Trichotillomania is characterized by a recurrent urge to pull out one’s hair, leading to noticeable hair loss and distress. Individuals may pull hair from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other areas, often in response to tension or stress. This behavior can impact self-esteem and daily life
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Excoriation disorder, also known as skin-picking disorder, involves recurrently picking at the skin, leading to tissue damage, sores, or scarring.
Individuals often pick in response to stress, anxiety, boredom or perceived imperfections, and may feel unable to stop despite repeated attempts.