Obsessions

Obsessions are recurring thoughts, fantasies, impulses or anxieties that are perceived as intrusive, disturbing, meaningless and sometimes completely unbearable. The thoughts are associated with anxiety, fear and great discomfort and can completely take over the thought process. This means that those who suffer from obsessions often have difficulty focusing on other things. Although these thoughts are perceived negatively, one feels compelled to think about them. 
 
The thoughts are perceived to be "true" and "real" while one has them, although afterwards or at other times one can often realize that they are really excessive or totally unrealistic. 
 
Common obsessions are excessive fear of germs and infections. Even fear of causing disasters, hurting others or subject others to great disappointments. Obsessions often time consuming and prevent or disturb everyday life, school or relationships with others.