OCD Symptoms

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is a complex mental illness that affects every sufferer differently. Contrary to what many people believe, it is not all about hand-washing and organization. While there are similarities across cases, individual manifestations tend to mirror specific anxieties based on a person’s unique life experience. Because of this, OCD is often classified into different subtypes. These are not diagnoses. They are labels or categories for understanding the many forms OCD can take.

Remember: Every sufferer experiences obsessions and compulsions, but they can center around very different topics based on your subtype. Some sufferers, do not fit into one bucket. They experience a range of symptoms, even some that don’t fall into any subtype at all. Do not let your unique case keep you from seeking help. Continue reading to explore different symptoms and subtypes of OCD.

Explore OCD Subtypes

Pure OCD

OCD without visible compulsions

Harm OCD

Constant fears that you might harm yourself or someone you love

Relationship OCD

Repetitive fears that you are with the wrong partner

Sexual Orientation OCD

Fears and obsessions about sexual orientation

Pedophilia OCD

Unwanted obsessions that you might harm a child

Religious OCD (Scrupulosity)

Constant fears that you’ll be punished for blasphemy

Contamination OCD

Repetitive fears that you’ll get contaminated by germs or diseases

Responsibility OCD

Fears that your actions or non-actions pose a serious risk to others

Somatic OCD

Hyper-awareness of your everyday functions or surroundings

Existential OCD

Obsessions with philosophical questions that you don’t know the answers to

Suicidal OCD

The fear of acting on thoughts of suicide

Metaphysical Contamination OCD

Fear of objects or people that remind you of a past traumatic event