Obsessive Compulsive Disorder belongs to the anxiety disorders. The person suffering from this disorder is trapped in a series of repetitive thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions) that cause them discomfort. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder can last for years or even decades. At times the symptoms subside and for a long time can be very mild. This disorder, however, is chronic and cannot be overcome without special treatment. There are generally two ways to treat obsessive compulsive disorder with proven effectiveness: medication and psychotherapy or a combination of both.