What is OCD? OCD or as medically referred to, obsessive compulsive disorder, is a disorder that is commonly misused by a majority of the public. While many people understand OCD as a disorder centered around cleanliness, and organization this would in fact be wrong. Obsessive compulsive disorder is actually a mental health disorder where the patient experiences irrational obsessions and compulsions. An obsession can be an unwelcome thought, a strong desire, or a triggering picture that plagues the mind of those with OCD and increases discomfort for the patients. A compulsion however is an action an affected person may take in order to decrease their discomfort. For example, someone who has been diagnosed with OCD may be experiencing obsessions that if they don't wash their hands ten times before bed that they will fall deathly ill. In order to decrease this worry they will then act on a compulsion and wash their hands ten times before bed. It is important to understand that when dealing with a patient who has this disorder, that they understand that their thoughts and actions are irrational, however they can't bring themselves to stop. Those diagnosed with OCD may vary with the severity of their obsessions/compulsions, and can have more than one obsession/compulsion. These obsessions and compulsions are all very different with some being focused on violent actions, or even sexual thoughts. Causes of OCD. While the cause of OCD isn't completely understood, psychologists have learned to understand that genetics as well as your environment, have a role in developing OCD. This disorder is most commonly developed in your adolescent years or early adulthood, however this does not mean it cannot be developed during childhood. What is OCPD? OCPD or as medically referred to, obsessive compulsive personality disorder, is the actual "OCD" that most of the public means to refer to when talking about someone who struggles with the need for order or perfection. OCPD is a mental health disorder where the patient experiences urges to make everything in their lives perfect, or to keep things extremely organized. For example, someone who suffers from OCPD may have to wash their sheets daily, or demand to have control over every situation. People who have OCPD do not experience obsessions and compulsions like people with OCD do. Something that sets OCPD apart from OCD is the fact that patients with obsessive compulsive personality disorder do not acknowledge their own disorder, unlike those with OCD, and often refuse to get professional help. Causes of OCPD. Similarly to OCD, while the certain cause of OCPD is unknown psychologist believe that genetics, cultural factors, and upbringing play a part in the development of this disorder. Many believe that overly demanding parents or absent parents have a role in a child developing this disorder. Summary While both disorders have some similarities, it is important to understand that they are completely different from one another. However, both should be taken very seriously as they are very influential to a patient's lifestyle and can hinder themselves in daily activities. If you know someone who has been diagnosed with either disorder, it is advised that you are patient with them and help them seek professional help. Sources: