Obsessive-compulsive disorder involves having repeated unwanted thoughts or compulsive behaviors. Common obsessions involve contamination or continually wondering what and absent loved one is doing. Examples of compulsions include repetitive cleaning, checking, or counting. Problems in childhood and traumatic early experiences or biochemical abnormalities are possible causes. Postraumatic stress disorder can affect anyone who has survived a severe physical and mental trauma.
Some victims find themselves reexperiencing the traumatic events through nightmares or flashbacks.
Others may numb themselves emotionally or startle easily and be plagues by anxiety, guilt and difficulty concentrating. Psychotherapy can be very helpful in talking out or resolving conflicts underlying the anxiety. For some anxiety disorders, medication may be necessary or helpful in conjunction with therapy. The prognosis for therapy of most anxiety disorders is very good. You should emerge from treatment able to function better in work and in your relationships.