Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental disorder in which people have unwanted and repeated thoughts, feelings, images, and sensations (obsessions) that drive them to do something over and over again (compulsions).
People with OCD may be plagued by persistent, unwelcome thoughts or images that are hard to control (obsessions). They may feel the need to perform certain rituals or routines repeatedly (compulsions), often according to very strict rules.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, affects about 1 in 40 adults in the United States. OCD can be a debilitating disorder that interferes with a person’s ability to work, go to school, or even take care of themselves. People with OCD often have difficulty completing simple tasks because of their obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors.
People with OCD may not realize that their behavior is abnormal or problematic. They may try to hide their symptoms from family and friends out of embarrassment or shame. However, OCD can be a very disabling condition that significantly interferes with everyday life. If you think you might have OCD, it’s important to seek professional help.
Common Signs of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Are you constantly checking to see if the doors are locked or if the stove is off? Do you wash your hands obsessively or compulsively clean your house? If so, you may be suffering from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). There are many common signs of OCD, which can include:
1. Repeating certain actions or rituals – People with OCD often have very specific habits that they feel compelled to follow. They often perform compulsive rituals because they are trying to relieve anxiety or prevent something bad from happening.
2. Arranging objects in a certain order or symmetry – One common symptom is arranging objects in a certain order or symmetry. This may involve organizing items in a specific way or making sure that everything is symmetrical.
3. Hoarding or collecting items – Hoarding or collecting items is one of the many ways that individuals with OCD may attempt to cope with their obsessions and compulsions. Hoarded items may include anything that the individual perceives as valuable or meaningful, such as trash, clothes, books, or even food.
4. Avoidance of certain situations or objects – Avoidance can take many different forms, but all involve steering clear of situations or objects that trigger your obsessions or compulsions. It might seem like a harmless way to cope with OCD, but it can actually make the condition worse. It prevents you from getting the help you need to get better.
5. Meaningless repetition of own words or actions – Another common sign of OCD include meaningless repetition of own words or actions.
If you think you might be struggling with OCD, it’s important to talk to a mental health professional who can help diagnose and treat the condition. Treatment for OCD typically includes cognitive behavioral therapy and medication. With treatment, most people with OCD can learn to manage their symptoms and live productive lives.
Who Is This OCD Quiz For?
This OCD quiz is for people who think they might have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. It is NOT a diagnostic tool but will help you understand more about OCD and how it affects people.
It will also give you some insight into what treatment options are available. If you think you may have OCD, please talk to a mental health professional.
How Accurate Is This Quiz?
This quiz is NOT a tool to identify mental health disorders. Only a licensed mental health care professional or specialist can diagnose mental health disorders.
MySelfCareNotes believes that self-assessments can be an initial step toward getting treatment. Too many people tend to avoid seeking professional assistance out of fear that their objections are not serious or legit enough.
