Recognizing the Different Subtypes of OCD
What Comes to Mind When You Think About OCD?
When most people hear "OCD," they often picture someone who's extremely neat, organized, or particular about cleanliness. The TV show Monk may come to mind for some people. While this is a very common portrayal of OCD, there are many other “subtypes” or common patterns that have been found with people seeking counseling.
What Makes OCD Different From Everyday Habits?
OCD involves persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) that create significant anxiety, leading to repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) aimed at reducing that distress. The key difference from typical habits or preferences is the level of distress and the time these thoughts and behaviors consume in someone's daily life.
While we all have routines or things that bother us. OCD creates a cycle where the more someone tries to make the anxiety go away, the stronger it becomes. Let's explore some of the most common ways OCD presents itself.
Contamination and Cleaning
This subtype involves intense fears about germs, dirt, or contamination that lead to excessive cleaning or avoidance behaviors. People with contamination OCD often experience intrusive thoughts about getting sick, spreading illness to others, or being "dirty" in some way. The anxiety can be so overwhelming that it interferes with daily activities and relationships.
Common examples include washing hands until they're raw and bleeding, avoiding public restrooms entirely, or being unable to touch door handles without intense distress. Some people may shower for hours or clean their homes repeatedly, yet still feel contaminated.
Checking
Checking OCD involves persistent doubts about whether important tasks have been completed safely or correctly. These doubts create a nagging feeling that something terrible might happen if the person doesn't verify their actions repeatedly. The checking behavior temporarily reduces anxiety but often makes the doubts stronger over time.
Examples include checking that doors are locked multiple times before leaving home, returning to make sure the stove is off even after checking several times, or repeatedly verifying that emails were sent correctly. Some people may check that they didn't accidentally harm someone while driving, going back to retrace their route.
Symmetry and Ordering
This subtype focuses on the need for things to be "just right" - perfectly symmetrical, ordered, or arranged in a specific way. People with symmetry OCD experience intense discomfort when things feel uneven, incomplete, or out of place. The distress isn't about cleanliness or organization for its own sake, but about achieving a feeling of completeness or balance.
Common behaviors include arranging books or objects in precise patterns, rewriting sentences until they "feel right," or needing to touch objects an even number of times. Some people may feel compelled to repeat actions until they achieve the "right" sensation or feeling.
Unacceptable or Taboo Thoughts
Perhaps the most misunderstood subtype involves intrusive thoughts that are violent, uncomfortable, or go against your values and/or beliefs. These thoughts are extremely distressing, because they contradict what someone actually believes. An individual may worry what they are thinking is "bad" or "dangerous" even though there is no desire to act on their thoughts.
Examples include unwanted thoughts about harming someone or ideas/thoughts that go against your religious or spiritual beliefs. Individuals with this subtype often never tell anyone due to fearing judgment or misunderstanding if they shared these thoughts.
You're Not Alone in This Experience
If you recognize yourself or someone you care about in these descriptions, know that you are not alone. OCD can feel overwhelming and isolating, but it's a recognized condition that many people experience. The thoughts and behaviors associated with OCD don't reflect someone's character or true desires. Rather, these symptoms can be brought into the light, discussed, and eventually changed.
We Are Here To Help!
If OCD is impacting your life or the life of someone you care about, reach out today to schedule a free 15-minute consultation. We understand the complexities of OCD treatment and are experienced with helping people become OCD free. In Las Vegas, we have both in-person and virtual sessions available, and we also offer virtual sessions across California, Nevada, Georgia, and Virginia.