Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder characterized by recurring, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that an individual feels driven to perform. Obsessions are intrusive, distressing thoughts or urges—such as fears of contamination or harm, unwanted taboo thoughts, or a need for symmetry. Compulsions are behaviors or rituals, like excessive hand washing, checking, counting, or organizing, that a person performs to relieve the anxiety associated with these obsessions, even if they know these actions are irrational or excessive.