What is OCD (Obsessive/Compulsive Disorder)?
OCD is included among the top ten causes of disability for all medical illnesses on a worldwide basis. The total yearly costs for America have been estimated at up to $8 billion. Thus, in terms of prevalence and cost, OCD ranks among the more widespread public health concerns. It is thought to cost more than Cancer, Heart Disease and Diabetes put together, yet, it receives almost no Government funding. OCD occurs in 2-3% of the US population, which translates into 5-6 million Americans. It affects one out of every four children. Patients with OCD have repetitive, intrusive, disturbing, obsessive thoughts, impulses, or images that cause anxiety; and these classify OCD as an anxiety disorder. They also have compulsive rituals designed to decrease this anxiety. Dr. Jenike has said that of all mental illness, OCD is the most painful for the person and for the family because they live with the pain 24 hours-a-day, and they know their behavior doesn’t make sense, but can’t stop. My son’s doc
