Obsessions are persistent and intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that cause significant anxiety or distress. They often revolve around specific themes, such as cleanliness, safety, or harm. People experiencing obsessions may feel compelled to engage in certain behaviors or rituals to alleviate their discomfort. These compulsive behaviors, known as compulsions, are often performed in response to the obsessions. For example, someone with an obsession about germs may wash their hands repeatedly. Obsessions are commonly associated with mental health conditions like Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), which can impact daily functioning and quality of life.