Depression and anxiety are common.  Frequently there is phobic avoidance of situations that involve the contenct of the obsessions, such as dirt or contamination.

Age of Onset

Although the disorder usually begins in adolescence, it may begin in childhood.

Impairment

Impairment is generally moderate to severe.  In some cases compulsions may become the major life activity.

Course

The course is usually chronic, with waxing and waning of the symptoms.

Complications

Complications include major depression and the abuse of alcohol and anti-anxiety medications.

Related Disorders

Trichotillomania, where the person has the persistent