Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder

Alternative Names

Personality disorder - obsessive-compulsive

Treatment

Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (for example, Prozac) may help reduce obsessions and compulsions. Cognitive-behavioral therapy may also help. Medications in combination with talk therapy may be more effective than either treatment alone.

Outlook (Prognosis)

The outlook for people with obsessive-compulsive personality disorder tends to be better than that for other personality disorders. This may be true because the self-imposed rigidness and control characterizing obsessive-compulsive personality disorder may prevent many of the complications such as drug abuse, which are common to the other personality disorders.

However, the social isolation common with this illness may eventually lead to feelings of depression later in life.

Possible Complications

• Relationship difficulties
• Depression

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if an attitude of perfectionism is interfering with employment or relationships.