Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is widely misunderstood. Characterized by overwhelming, obsessive thoughts and compulsions, diagnosis of this disorder can take years, if properly diagnosed at all. Beyond the depictions in pop culture of someone avoiding shaking someone's hand, knocking a certain number of times, or being a general "germaphobe," OCD is a disorder that can show up in dozens of ways and often has grave implications for someone's life and well-being.
Whether you're living with OCD or supporting someone with the condition, click on for some important facts about OCD you should know.