Case 3

Bert is 40 years old man who works in brush factory. He seems to be a normal guy, however, he is terribly afraid of being contaminated by germs. He avoids shaking hands with others, in addition, he won't eat in the cafeteria, and he has trouble leaving the bathroom because he isn't sure he has washed his hands well enough.

Evidently, Bert suffers a case of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, is the repetitive thoughts or obsessive behavior. Bert's repetitive behavior such as washing hand at all time suggests that he suffers compulsive behavior. According to DSM-IV-TR, Bert feels the need to repeat his actions in response to his obsession. His behaviors are to reduce the stress or event. In some point of time, Bert do realizes that his behavior is irrational. However, he cannot control his actions to washing hand or avoid any kind of touching.

It would be best for Bert to attend Cognitive-behavioral therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy enables Bert to confront to his obsessive thoughts and restrain him from compulsive behavior. It exposes the source of obsession to Bert and restrain his actions. Moreover, it helps Bert to respond to the obsessive thoughts in a healthy way. There are other treatments for Bert to overcome his OCD, such as medication, group therapy, and family therapy. Bert can take some medicated drugs to help him with OCD, but medicated drug is the least effect way to solve OCD. Group and family therapy may help him through understanding and interaction between others.

Many people in the US have the OCD. Some signs including repeatedly bathing, showering or washing hands, refusing to shake hands or touch doorknobs are visible when the person has OCD. It is important to recognize the signs of OCD and effectively treat it in time.