What mental health symptoms are often associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

The symptoms associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) primarily include intrusive thoughts and compulsions to perform specific tasks or rituals. Individuals with OCD experience persistent, unwanted thoughts or images (obsessions) that cause significant anxiety. To alleviate the distress caused by these obsessions, they may feel compelled to engage in certain behaviors or mental acts (compulsions). This cycle of intrusive thoughts and ritualistic behaviors is central to OCD and is a hallmark feature of the disorder.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately reflect the symptoms of OCD. Increased self-esteem and confidence are not typically associated with OCD; rather, individuals may struggle with self-image due to the distress caused by their symptoms. Expressive emotional connections with others are also not characteristic, as many individuals with OCD may experience social withdrawal or difficulty in relationships due to their obsessions and compulsions. Lastly, while apathy towards daily activities can be a symptom of other mental health conditions, it doesn't directly align with the core features of OCD, which are specifically focused on the cycle of intrusive thoughts and compulsions.