Relationships Matter ? But There's No Need to Obsess

(NewsUSA) - Affecting 2.2 million American adults, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a serious, debilitating anxiety disorder in which people have unwanted or intrusive thoughts and perform ritualistic behaviors and routines to try to ease their anxiety or distress.

According to a new national survey commissioned by the Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA) and conducted by Harris Interactive, more than half of those already diagnosed reported their condition has negatively affected their ability to maintain important relationships at work, at home and in their personal lives.

In light of these findings, ADAA has launched the "Treat It, Don't Repeat It: Break Free from OCD" campaign, a new initiative to educate Americans about the symptoms of OCD and provide information they can use to discuss treatment options with a health care professional.

To support people with this disorder, their family members and health care professionals, www.treatocd.org has been developed to serve as an information resource. There, people can learn more about OCD, watch informative videos and hear from people managing their symptoms and recovering from the disorder. They can also view public service announcements online and order free educational materials.

Other findings of the survey conducted by ADAA included:

- Fifty-nine percent of adults with untreated OCD say their symptoms have had a negative impact on their ability to have a romantic relationship, and 44 percent say they have made excuses or lied to a significant other to compensate for their behavior.

- Forty-six percent of those surveyed say they have no close friends.

- About one-third report their disorder has held them back professionally, while 24 percent say they have quit a job due to their OCD symptoms.

- Fifty percent have missed social opportunities with family and friends due to their symptoms.

- Forty-five percent say they suffer from lack of control over their lives.

- Forty-nine percent of people diagnosed with OCD are embarrassed about having it.

To help those living with OCD, ADAA has launched a series of public service announcements dedicated to raising awareness about OCD and the important role treatment plays in helping people break free from their symptoms.

"Article By: NewsUSA"