How serious is obsessive compulsive disorder?

It can be a serious mental illness. People with OCD often have intrusive thoughts, urges, or images that make them feel anxious or uncomfortable. They may try to get rid of the thoughts, urges, or images by doing a ritual or behavior over and over again.

OCD can cause severe distress and interfere with a person's ability to function in everyday life. It can also lead to problems in relationships, at work, and in other areas of life. OCD is treated with medication and therapy.