Q: I am a 31 years old male with a peculiar problem. Though I am a very religious person, I get filthy thoughts about gods and deities while sitting in the temple. If I try to control these thoughts, things worsen. I also think a lot about dying while sleeping. Am I suffering from OCD? How can I be treated?

A:The small description given by you seems like Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Latest research does indicate OCD has strong biological base (changes in chemical composition of brain neurotransmitter helps). Combination of medication and behaviour therapy, works the best, along with needed social intervention and psychoeducational work with you and your family. The best way to go about this is to get hold of a good psychiatrist, who can help with medication and education about the illness. With his help see a behaviour therapist; they will need to work together to handle the OCD. Psychiatrist will do a through assessment, to rule out other causes of OCD symptoms and will confirm diagnosis before embarking on treatment. OCD and tackling it can be very stressful, so take precautions in lifestyle, e.g. have balanced water and food intake, do regular physical and mental exercises and have regular recreational activity. All this will help you to fight against OCD.