People with the disorder may fear being contaminated or getting sick from dirt and germs. This worry results in compulsive behavior like excessive hand washing and taking showers. Other kinds of obsessive-compulsive behavior include checking, counting, hoarding and other repetitive behaviors that are performed to reduce anxiety and worry. Everyone has some of the same thoughts, but obsessive-compulsives have these thoughts more often and they are afraid of them. As more people come forward and recognize the behavior for what it is, we will begin to see improvements.
People tend to live with their behavior for years before seeking treatment.
I hope programs like this one will encourage more OCD sufferers to seek help. Potential participants will undergo a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether the treatment program is appropriate for them. Individuals selected for the treatment participate in group sessions over a 12-20 week period. Many insurance carriers may reimburse these services. The Yale Psychological Services Clinic is a clinical, training, and research facility affiliated with the Yale University Department of Psychology and also offers treatment for people with depression, anxiety, social phobia and relationship problems.