Srinagar, March 30 -- Heeba (name changed) found herself engulfed in a relentless battle with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Her daily routine was haunted by incessant thoughts of cleanliness and orderliness, driving her to repeat tasks endlessly, even to the point of scolding her children out of irrational fears.

"I keep washing hands, utensils, and clothes again and again as I am not satisfied that they are clean. If some work is undone, I get tensed until and unless I complete that work. I took it lightly andthought this was discipline, but then things got worse. I keep cleaning and washing again and again, even if I am ill. I used to scold my children harshly if they come from outside, thinking there is dirt on them even if the...