OCD causes its sufferers to act out repetitive, ritualistic behaviors based on persistent and involuntary thoughts. Continual hand washing, stove or lock checking, and counting to a certain number are examples of compulsions. Unrealistic fears of hurting one's child or swearing in public are examples of obsessions. Often, people with this disorder are aware that their thoughts and behaviors are irrational, but feel powerless to stop them. Schizophrenia Schizophrenia defines a group of disorders that cause distorted thought and perception.
Thoughts seem scrambled or suddenly jump from one subject to an unrelated subject.
Perception can be distorted beyond reality, causing sufferers to hear or see things that are not there. People with schizophrenia commonly feel heightened self-awareness or paranoia. Often they suffer low self-esteem and even withdraw into seclusion. Schizophrenia is one of the most debilitating of all mental illnesses. It afflicts people of all ages, race and gender, and it affects each individual in different ways and degrees.