You likely have heard of the term "OCD" before, but you might not know what it means.  OCD is an acronym for obsessive-compulsive disorder, which is a mental health condition consisting of obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are unwanted, recurrent thoughts, ideas, images, or impulses that appear to intrude upon a person's mind and cause distress. Obsessions can be about anything, but they often center around harm to self and others, contamination, perfectionism, relationships, one's sexuality or gender identity, and religion or morality. Obsessions are called "ego-dystonic", meaning they are contrary to the sufferer's values and belief system. Compulsions are repetitive, often rigid behaviors or thoughts aimed toward relieving the distress brought on by obsessions. Compulsions are also varied, but common ones are checking, washing and cleaning, repeating certain actions, or reassurance-seeking.