Compulsions

Compulsions can be defined as repeating physical or mental actions that an individual feels compelled to do according to their own strict rules. There are millions of people who suffer from some form of compulsion. These compulsions might affect a person’s work, health, and relationships. Sadly people with compulsions persist with their compulsions, even though it affects their lives negatively. Compulsions can become all-consuming and can make it very difficult to live a normal life for the individual.  The person might not want to repeat these compulsions and view that as irrational, but they still have a strong inner drive to do so, that overrides their resistance. 

A common compulsive behavior is washing hands. A person might have the compulsion to wash their hands because they are afraid that they might contaminate loved ones or themselves with germs. Their hands might “feel” dirty, therefore they keep washing their hands until they “feel” right. This is a heightened sense of responsibility to protect loved ones, which often results in strict rituals.

If you would like to read a little more information on which compulsions seem to be the most common you can have a look at this article published by the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. https://www.ocduk.org/overcoming-ocd/nice-guidelines-for-the-treatment-of-ocd/