Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

I found it interesting that obsessive compulsive disorder stems from avoidant behavior. The compulsions are actions used to avoid the anxiety that their obsessions and worries cause. Because the actions only give a temporary relief, the person suffering from the disorder must perform it over and over again to avoid becoming to anxious. I feel all people have a little bit of obsessive compulsive behavior in them but those with this disorder suffer due to its great impact on their life. I have a friend who most likely suffers from this disorder and is excessively checking she has everything before she leaves. It may not seem to be that big of a deal, rummaging through her purse at least three times to make sure she has everything. However the task is very time consuming and is the reason she is late for work, class and other important events. In the past she mentioned that she has forgotten to bring some pretty important stuff with her such as a cell phone, money, important papers which has probably caused her great anxiety which she is now trying to avoid.

The video below illustrates the nature of OCD and how obsessive thoughts infest the mind of someone who suffers from it