Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that often involves a cycle of persistent, distressing thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). While many people have heard of OCD, the severity and types of symptoms can vary from person to person, making it a complex condition to understand.

In this post, we’ll walk you through some of the most common symptoms of OCD and how to recognize them, whether you’re seeking help for yourself or someone you care about.

What Are the Symptoms of OCD?

The symptoms of OCD are typically categorized into obsessions and compulsions.

Obsessions are intrusive, unwanted thoughts that cause significant distress and anxiety.
Compulsions are actions or behaviors that individuals feel compelled to perform in response to the obsessive thoughts. These actions are done in an attempt to reduce the anxiety caused by the obsessions.

In severe cases, OCD can severely impact one’s daily life, making it hard to function without engaging in compulsive behaviors.

Obsessions: Intrusive Thoughts That Won’t Go Away

Obsessions are persistent thoughts or mental images that intrude upon a person’s mind. These thoughts can range from fears of harming others, to concerns about cleanliness or orderliness, and can be both distressing and disruptive to daily life.

It’s common for everyone to have an occasional intrusive thought—like imagining your car swerving off the road while driving through a tough curve. However, for people with OCD, these thoughts are much more frequent, intense, and cause a higher level of anxiety. These thoughts may be offensive or violent in nature and can lead to overwhelming emotional distress.

Some common examples of obsessive thoughts include:

Fears of self-harm or causing harm to others
Anxiety about contamination or germs leading to illness
Unwanted sexual thoughts or fantasies
An overwhelming need for symmetry or order in the environment
Violent or aggressive thoughts
Repetitive thoughts about religion or moral behavior

It’s important to note that people with OCD may experience several obsessions simultaneously, and these thoughts often trigger the need for compulsive actions in an effort to reduce the anxiety.

Compulsions: Repetitive Actions to Cope with Anxiety

Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental rituals that a person with OCD engages in to reduce the anxiety brought on by their obsessions. These actions may provide temporary relief, but they don’t eliminate the obsessive thoughts, causing the cycle to continue.

For example, someone who is obsessed with the idea of contamination might wash their hands repeatedly, hoping to “neutralize” the anxiety. However, this action provides only temporary relief, and the obsessive thoughts soon return, prompting another cycle of hand washing or other behaviors.

Compulsions can be physical actions, like washing hands or checking locks, or mental actions, such as counting or silently repeating phrases. Some common compulsions include:

Repeatedly arranging or rearranging items in specific ways
Excessive hand washing or cleaning rituals
Hoarding items that have little or no value
Repeatedly checking things (e.g., doors, stoves, or locks) to make sure they’re secure
Following a set routine or specific order in performing tasks
Performing actions a specific number of times (e.g., counting while chewing food)

Distinguishing Habits from Compulsions

It’s essential to differentiate between habits or routines and compulsions. Many people, OCD or not, have habits or routines they follow regularly. However, individuals with OCD feel a compelling urge to perform these behaviors and are often unable to function without them. Unlike regular habits, compulsions in OCD do not bring enjoyment or satisfaction—they only offer temporary relief from obsessive thoughts.

Getting Help for OCD

If you or someone you care about is struggling with OCD, you’re not alone. OCD is a treatable condition, and therapy, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), is an effective treatment option. At Hillary Counseling, we understand how challenging OCD can be, and our therapists are here to help you work through the cycle of obsessions and compulsions in a safe, nonjudgmental space.

If you’re ready to take the next step and get support, we invite you to schedule a consultation with one of our mental health therapists. You don’t have to navigate OCD on your own.