OCD is a type of anxiety disorder that can strike at any age but often begins in childhood

Repeated, intrusive, unwanted thoughts that cause distressing emotions

Urge to do something to lessen discomfort

Constant repetition of rituals

Anguish of knowing compulsions are irrational

Ashamed of actions

Nearly three million Americans

Cleaning – constant fear that real or inanimate germs, dirt or chemicals will "contaminate" them

Repeating – repeat names, phrases or behavior several times to dispel anxiety

Completing – perform series of complicated steps in exact order or repeat them over and over until they are done perfectly

Checking – check to make sure they have not harmed himself/herself or others

Meticulous – developing overwhelming concern about where things go or appearances

Avoiding – stay away from the cause of their anxiety and anything related to it

Hoarding – constantly collect useless items; less common

Slowness – usually affects one routine task, moving very, very slowly

Most effective treatment is behavior therapy

Successful for 50-90% of those suffering from OCD