What Are Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders?

OCRDs include a spectrum of conditions that share similar patterns—unwanted thoughts, repetitive actions, and difficulty controlling behaviours even when the individual knows they are excessive. These disorders are not a sign of weakness or poor self-control; they are medical conditions that affect millions worldwide.

Some well-known disorders in this category include:

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  
  

• Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
  
  

• Hoarding Disorder
  
  

• Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling Disorder)
  
  

• Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder
  
  

1. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD involves obsessions—persistent, intrusive thoughts or fears—and compulsions, which are repetitive actions performed to reduce anxiety.

Common Obsessions

• Fear of contamination
  
  

• Fear of harming oneself or others
  
  

• Excessive doubt or need for reassurance
  
  

• Intrusive unwanted sexual or aggressive thoughts
  
  

• Preoccupation with symmetry or order
  
  

Common Compulsions

• Excessive cleaning or handwashing
  
  

• Checking locks, stoves, or appliances repeatedly
  
  

• Arranging items in a perfect or “just right” manner
  
  

• Counting, tapping, or repeating actions
  
  

• Mental rituals such as repeating phrases or prayers
  
  

OCD can consume hours of the day and significantly impact work, relationships, and emotional well-being.

2. Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)

Individuals with BDD become excessively preoccupied with one or more perceived flaws in their appearance—flaws that others hardly notice or do not see at all.

Key Symptoms

• Constant checking in the mirror
  
  

• Avoiding mirrors entirely
  
  

• Comparing one’s appearance with others
  
  

• Excess grooming or seeking cosmetic procedures
  
  

• Social withdrawal due to embarrassment
  
  

BDD can lead to severe anxiety and low self-esteem.

3. Hoarding Disorder

Hoarding goes beyond regular collecting. The person finds it extremely difficult to discard possessions, regardless of their actual value.

Signs of Hoarding Disorder

• Accumulation of items to the point that living spaces become unusable
  
  

• Emotional distress or guilt when trying to throw things away
  
  

• Feeling overwhelmed but unable to organize or declutter
  
  

• Social withdrawal due to embarrassment about living conditions
  
  

This disorder often leads to health risks, financial strain, and relationship conflict.

4. Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling Disorder)

A person repeatedly pulls out hair from the scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other body areas, often as a way to relieve tension or emotional discomfort.

Common Effects

• Noticeable hair loss
  
  

• Feelings of shame and attempts to hide bald spots
  
  

• Increased anxiety, guilt, or isolation
  
  

It is not a habit—it is a clinical disorder requiring care and support.

5. Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder

Individuals with this disorder repeatedly pick at their skin, causing wounds, scarring, and emotional distress.

Typical Signs

• Recurrent picking at healthy skin
  
  

• Attempts to stop but experiencing a failure to control the behaviour
  
  

• Significant marks, bruises, or infections
  
  

• Avoiding social situations due to appearance concerns
  
  

Why Do These Disorders Occur?

OCRDs arise from a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. These may include:

• Imbalances in brain chemicals (serotonin, dopamine)
  
  

• Family history of anxiety or compulsive disorders
  
  

• Personality traits such as perfectionism
  
  

• Past trauma or chronic stress
  
  

• Learned coping behaviours
  
  

These disorders are not intentional—they develop through complex interactions between mind and brain.

Signs You Should Seek Help

Consider professional support if you notice:

• Intrusive thoughts you cannot control
  
  

• Repetitive actions that consume your time
  
  

• Avoidance of people or activities
  
  

• Emotional exhaustion due to compulsions
  
  

• Shame, embarrassment, or guilt related to thoughts or behaviours
  
  

Early intervention can prevent the disorder from worsening and improve overall quality of life.

Treatment and Hope

The good news is that Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders are treatable. Many individuals recover and lead fulfilling lives with the right support.

Common Treatment Approaches

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
  Especially Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD
  
  

• Psychotherapy for emotional insight and coping
  
  

• Medication (when required and guided by psychiatrists)
  
  

• Support groups and family counselling
  
  

A Final Word

Living with obsessive-compulsive or related disorders can feel overwhelming, but you are not alone. Understanding the condition is the first step toward healing. With proper therapy, support, and guidance, individuals can regain control of their thoughts, emotions, and everyday life.