Obsessive compulsive Disorder (OCD)
OCD is characterized by unreasonable thoughts and fears (obsessions) leading to compulsive behaviors (compulsions/rituals). OCD is typically treated using Cognitive Behavioral interventions including Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP).
OBsessions
Unwanted thoughts or ideas that keep popping up in your head.
Example: Constant worries about germs, fear that something bad will happen, or a need for things to be “just right.”
Compulsions
Repeated actions or rituals that you feel you must do to ease the anxiety caused by the obsessive thoughts.
Example: Washing hands multiple times, checking things over and over, or counting in a specific way.
Awareness
Many people with OCD know that their thoughts and behaviors are not entirely logical, but they can't easily stop them
Realizing that checking the stove multiple times is unnecessary, but feeling compelled to do it anyway.
Impact
OCD can disrupt daily activities, take up a lot of time, and cause stress in relationships, school, and at work.
Subtypes
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can present in various forms, and individuals may experience a combination of different obsessions and compulsions. Here are some common subtypes or themes of OCD:
Contamination
Fear of germs, dirt, or contamination leads to compulsive behaviors such as excessive handwashing, cleaning, or avoiding certain places or objects perceived as dirty.
Checking
Persistent doubts or fears that something bad will happen, leading to repetitive checking behaviors. This can involve checking doors, locks, and other appliances in addition to emails, text messages, and work. “Let me double check and make sure it’s safe and alright.”
Symmetry and ordering
Intense need for things to be in a specific order or symmetrical. Compulsions may involve arranging or aligning objects until they feel "just right."
Hoarding
Difficulty parting with possessions, even those with little or no value. Hoarding can lead to excessive clutter and significant distress.
Harm
Fear of causing harm to oneself or others. Compulsions may include checking behaviors to prevent harm.
Sexual Orientation OCD
Obsessions related to one's sexual orientation or fears of being attracted to the "wrong" gender. Compulsions may involve seeking reassurance, avoidance behaviors, or mental rituals.
Intrusive thoughts
Disturbing and intrusive thoughts about harm coming to oneself or others. Compulsions may involve mental rituals or counting to neutralize these thoughts.
Pure-O (Purely Obsessional)
Distressing experience distressing obsessions without observable compulsive behaviors. The compulsions are often mental rituals, such as counting or repeating words silently.
health anxiety
Excessive work about having a serious illness or disease. Compulsions may include frequent medical check-ups or reassurance-seeking.
Rumination
Persistent dwelling on doubts and uncertainties, often related to morality, ethics, or philosophical questions. Compulsions may involve seeking reassurance or analyzing thoughts excessively.
Religious or Scrupulosity OCD
Excessive concerns about religious or moral issues, leading to obsessions about committing blasphemy or immoral acts. Compulsions may involve praying or seeking reassurance from religious figures.
