Examples of OCD Compulsions and Obsessions

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental illness characterized by recurrent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). These obsessions and compulsions can be distressing and interfere with daily life.

Common OCD Compulsions

• Excessive cleaning and handwashing: People with OCD may feel the need to wash their hands or shower multiple times a day, even if they are not dirty. They may also clean their house excessively, spending hours scrubbing surfaces and organizing objects.
• Checking: People with OCD may check things over and over again to make sure they are done correctly. They may check doors and windows to make sure they are locked, or they may check their work multiple times to make sure there are no errors.
• Repeating: People with OCD may repeat certain actions or rituals over and over again. They may repeat words or phrases, or they may perform certain tasks in a specific order.
• Arranging: People with OCD may have a strong need to arrange things in a specific order or pattern. They may arrange their belongings in a certain way, or they may arrange objects in their environment in a specific way.
• Hoarding: People with OCD may hoard objects, even if they are useless or have no value. They may be unable to throw things away, even if they know they do not need them.

Common OCD Obsessions

• Fear of contamination: People with OCD may be afraid of germs or dirt, and they may avoid situations where they might come into contact with these things. They may also be afraid of becoming ill, and they may take extreme measures to avoid getting sick.
• Fear of harm: People with OCD may have intrusive thoughts about harming themselves or others. These thoughts can be very distressing and can lead to significant anxiety and fear.
• Fear of making mistakes: People with OCD may be afraid of making mistakes, and they may check things over and over again to make sure they are done correctly. They may also avoid situations where they might make a mistake.
• Fear of losing control: People with OCD may be afraid of losing control of their thoughts, feelings, or actions. They may avoid situations where they feel like they might lose control, and they may try to control their thoughts and feelings through rituals and compulsions.
• Fear of unwanted thoughts: People with OCD may have unwanted thoughts or images that pop into their head, even though they do not want to have these thoughts or images. These thoughts can be very distressing and can lead to significant anxiety and fear.

Treatment for OCD

OCD is a treatable condition. Treatment typically involves a combination of therapy and medication. Therapy can help people to learn how to manage their obsessions and compulsions, while medication can help to reduce the anxiety and depression that often accompany OCD. With treatment, people with OCD can live full and productive lives.