These are repetitive thoughts or actions which a person feels compelled to carry out even though a rational bystander would regard them as quite unnecessary. They can include repetitive washing of hands (to remove germs), collecting of rubbish or unwanted items, and counting, organising or checking procedures (for example, before leaving the house).
Disorders such as these can make it impossible for a person (and sometimes other members of the household) to lead a normal life. OCDs can affect one in 40 of the population and they are difficult to treat by any method. However, hypnotherapy may produce some improvement in the condition.