Do you have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)?

Like other mental health conditions, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) often makes  its way into casual conversation. People sometimes use the term to describe their meticulous attention to detail or a preference for being highly organized. In fact, however, OCD is a diagnosable and treatable mental health condition defined by recurring, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental rituals (compulsions) that a person feels driven to perform to ease distress. You can be a self-proclaimed perfectionist or a person who prefers order without having a mental health condition.

If you’re concerned that you might have OCD, know that you’re not alone and that help is available. Read on to discover the clinical definition of OCD, some common signs and symptoms, and how receiving a professional evaluation can set you on the path to healing.

What is OCD?

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, OCD is “a common, chronic, and long-lasting disorder in which a person has uncontrollable, reoccurring thoughts (“obsessions”) and/or behaviors (“compulsions”) that he or she feels the urge to repeat over and over.” These obsessions and compulsions can make it difficult to tend to your daily responsibilities and enjoy life.

OCD usually begins before the age of 25 but it often surfaces in childhood or adolescence. People who have OCD are also predisposed to other mental health conditions like anxiety and depression. So in order for treatment to be effective, people living with OCD often require support for their co-occurring disorders. For this reason and more, it’s always best to seek a professional evaluation if you or someone you care about is struggling with symptoms of OCD.

What are the symptoms of OCD?

Each person affected by OCD will have their own unique experience of the condition. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and fluctuate in intensity over time. However, there are some common signs that may indicate the presence of OCD. For a person to be diagnosed with OCD, their symptoms must be so intense that they interrupt their ability to live their life in a profound way.

Obsessions

Obsessions are repeated, upsetting, and intrusive thoughts or mental images that cause distress and anxiety. Obsessions cannot be resolved by relying on logic alone and do not necessarily represent the person’s true inner wishes or desires. Some examples of obsessions include:

• Fears of germs, catching a contagious illness, or worries about getting dirty

• Unwanted thoughts or mental images that could be violent or sexual

• Fixating on ideas or thoughts related to religion that could feel disrespectful or blasphemous

• Fear of getting hurt or being harmed

• Worrying that something bad could happen to a friend or loved one

• Worrying that something isn’t finished or perfect (and not being able to let it go)

• Fixating on making sure everything is in order, symmetrical, or done with absolute perfection

• Fear of loss or throwing away something that could be important

• An inability to get seemingly meaningless images, sounds, words, or music “out of your head”

Compulsions

When a person who has OCD experiences an obsession, they engage in a repeated behavior or mental process called a compulsion. This is done in an attempt to alleviate their discomfort. These responses are often excessive and while they might provide some temporary relief, over time they can keep someone from being able to function appropriately at home, work, school, or in relationships.

Some examples of compulsions that a person with OCD might perform include:

• Absolute avoidance of any person, place, or thing they fear may trigger additional obsessions or compulsions

• Chronic, ritualistic hygiene routines (like excessive hand washing)

• Cleaning household items or personal belongings repeatedly

• Fixating on counting or engaging in repetitive tasks

• Repeated attempts to ensure safety (even when no harm is apparent) like unplugging appliances or checking locks, windows, doors, etc.

• Arranging objects in a particular way and experiencing extreme distress when things are not in the preferred order

• Constantly needing reassurance or approval from others

Is OCD self-diagnosable?

It can be tempting to self-diagnose OCD — especially if you notice repeating thoughts or behaviors that feel hard to control. Online quizzes and social media posts can raise awareness, but they can’t give you a clear or accurate diagnosis. Only a licensed mental health professional can determine if what you’re experiencing is OCD or something else.

If your thoughts or behaviors take up a lot of time, cause distress, or interfere with daily life, it’s a good idea to reach out for help. A mental health professional can help you understand what’s happening and decide what kind of support you might need.

Is there a test for OCD?

You might see online “OCD tests” that claim to measure symptoms, but there isn’t a single test that can diagnose OCD. These quizzes can help you recognize possible signs, but they’re not a substitute for a clinical evaluation.

During an evaluation, your provider will ask about your thoughts, habits, and daily experiences to get a full picture of what you’re going through. They’ll use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to see if your symptoms meet the criteria for OCD and may check for related conditions.

A diagnosis doesn’t define who you are — it’s simply a tool to help you understand yourself better and find the right kind of support.

Dig deeper:

• How psychiatrists diagnose OCD

Clinician’s take

Wondering if you have OCD can be confusing and even scary. From my experience, people often notice their thoughts or behaviors feel ‘too much’ but aren’t sure why. Getting a professional evaluation can bring clarity. It’s not about labeling yourself, but about understanding your mind so you can find relief and support.

Brandy Chalmers, LPC

Clinical reviewer