Think you know obsessive-compulsive disorder? Think again. OCD is one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions. Many assume it’s all about being tidy or organized, but the reality is far ...

The exact reason why we experience intrusive thoughts isn't fully understood. These unwanted, disturbing thoughts are called intrusive thoughts, and they can be very unsettling. But here's the thing, ...

Many people with OCD first get advice from internet chat forums or therapists untrained in OCD. Although the advice-givers are usually well-meaning, the messaging isn’t always consistent with best ...

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition, and psychosis is a more general term that describes a range of experiences. They may both share similar symptoms, such as intrusive ...

Too often, people say they “let their intrusive thoughts win” after spontaneously dyeing their hair or making a late-night purchase. There’s a difference between impulsive and intrusive thoughts, ...

Around 2% of the population struggles with obsessive compulsive disorder or OCD. That's roughly 163 million people who go through cycles of obsessions – unwanted intrusive thoughts, images or urges – ...

Rohan’s nighttime fears of being robbed and abducted began at five years old. At nine, Rohan was still sleeping in his mother’s room plagued by nighttime obsessions. “I feel like we’re going to get ...

Haupt is a health and wellness editor at TIME. Haupt is a health and wellness editor at TIME. It takes an average of 14 to 17 years for people to be diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) ...

Contamination OCD is a subtype, or “theme,” of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It includes persistent fear of contamination and an overwhelming need to clean oneself and objects. OCD involves ...

You're standing on a balcony enjoying the view, and suddenly, a disturbing thought flashes through your mind – "What if I jump?" Or maybe you're holding your ...