4 Types of OCD & How They Manifest
Obsessions: Fear of germs, dirt, or contamination
Compulsions: Excessive hand washing, showering, or cleaning of objects
Avoidance of certain places or people perceived as contaminated
2. Checking OCD:
Obsessions: Fear of making mistakes or leaving things undone
Compulsions: Repeatedly checking doors, locks, appliances, or other things
Mental checking: Repeatedly going over actions or thoughts to make sure they were done correctly
3. Symmetry and ordering OCD:
Obsessions: Need for things to be symmetrical, orderly, or aligned
Compulsions: Arranging objects in a specific way, repeating actions a certain number of times
Extreme distress when things are not in order
4. Hoarding OCD:
Obsessions: Excessive attachment to possessions, fear of losing them
Compulsions: Difficulty discarding items, even if they are useless or clutter
Excessive collecting of items, even if there is no need or space for them
5. Rumination OCD:
Obsessions: Persistent and intrusive thoughts about a variety of topics, such as relationships, religion, philosophy
Compulsions: Mentally replaying events, seeking reassurance, or trying to suppress the thoughts
Difficulty letting go of thoughts, leading to anxiety and distress
6. Relationship OCD:
Obsessions: Excessive doubts or worries about one’s relationships, partner, or sexuality
Compulsions: Repeatedly seeking reassurance, checking behavior, or comparing oneself to others
Difficulty trusting one’s partner or feeling secure in the relationship
7. Sexual intrusive thoughts OCD:
Obsessions: Unwanted and disturbing sexual thoughts about oneself or others
Compulsions: Avoiding sexual situations, praying or seeking reassurance, excessive mental checking
Fear of acting on the intrusive thoughts or being a bad person
8. Aggressive intrusive thoughts OCD:
Obsessions: Unwanted and disturbing thoughts about harming oneself or others
Compulsions: Avoiding potential targets, seeking reassurance, excessive mental checking
Fear of losing control or harming others
9. Body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs):
Obsessions: Preoccupation with perceived flaws or imperfections in one’s appearance
Compulsions: Repeatedly picking at skin, pulling out hair, biting nails, or other repetitive behaviors aimed at “fixing” the perceived flaw
Excessive distress or embarrassment over the BFRBs
It is important to note that these are just a few examples of the many ways that OCD can manifest. The specific obsessions and compulsions will vary from person to person, and the severity of the symptoms can also vary greatly. If you are concerned that you or someone you know may have OCD, it is important to seek professional help. With the right treatment, OCD can be effectively managed.