Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Overview

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent, irrational fears and thoughts (obsessions) responded to by engaging in uncontrollable, repetitive behaviors or rituals (compulsions). For example, if you have excessive fear of germs, you may compulsively wash your hands until they're sore and chapped. You may realize these obsessions are irrational, but feel unable to stop the behavior. The behaviors associated with OCD can take over your life and cause problems with work, school and relationships.

Why choose Mayo Clinic for OCD

• Expert, compassionate specialists. Mayo Clinic specialists take the time to listen thoroughly to understand your needs and develop a customized treatment plan to manage OCD symptoms and improve quality of life.
• Unique, successful program for children and teens. Through the Pediatric Anxiety Disorders Clinic, Mayo Clinic in Minnesota offers an innovative, intensive five-day OCD treatment program for children and teens. Pioneered by Mayo psychologists, the program provides exposure and response prevention treatment, a form of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that helps reduce OCD symptoms. CBT can be the most effective option for children when carried out correctly by an experienced therapist.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., is ranked among the Best Hospitals for psychiatry by U.S. News & World Report.

Mayo Clinic: Answers you can trust

At Mayo Clinic, we assemble a team of specialists who take the time to listen and thoroughly understand your health issues and concerns. We tailor the care you receive to your personal health care needs. You can trust our specialists to collaborate and offer you the best possible outcomes, safety and service.

Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical institution that reinvests all earnings into improving medical practice, research and education. We're constantly involved in innovation and medical research, finding solutions to improve your care and quality of life. Your doctor or someone on your medical team is likely involved in research related to your condition.

Our patients tell us that the quality of their interactions, our attention to detail and the efficiency of their visits mean health care — and trusted answers — like they've never experienced.

Why Choose Mayo Clinic
What Sets Mayo Clinic Apart

Read more about obsessive-compulsive disorder and cognitive behavioral therapy.