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What is OCD? And what can I do about it?

May 18, 2023

It’s not uncommon to hear the term “OCD” tossed into everyday conversation. Despite this casual use, it’s important to understand that OCD is anything but casual.  

 

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, is a chronic illness with long-lasting implications. While you may have heard people use OCD to describe a “quirk,” this diminishes the true nature of the illness and the experiences of those struggling to manage it.  

 

What exactly is OCD and how is it diagnosed? 

 

If you have OCD, you may experience obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours. 

 

An obsession is an unwanted thought or urge that enters one’s mind but is not aligned with their values or who they are as a person. The thought itself can feel highly distressing and anxiety-provokingThe occurrence of this unwanted obsession may cause feelings of anxiety, discomfort or disgust. Common obsessions may look like this: 


  • Fear of germs 

  • A need for things to be orderly 

  • Aggressive thoughts toward yourself or others 

  • Unwanted, taboo ideas involving sex, religion or harm 

A compulsion is the repetitive behaviour an individual may feel the need to do to relieve the anxious and uncomfortable feelings caused by obsessive thoughts. Some common compulsions may look like this: 


  • Frequent washing of hands or cleaning 
  • Re-ordering things to be “perfect” 
  • Checking on things repeatedly 
  • Counting 

When an individual acts on their compulsions, the anxiety and discomfort of the obsessions are soothed or relieved. However, this relief is only temporary. The obsessive thoughts and fears come back, compelling the ritualistic behaviour to start again. Individuals who demonstrate severe OCD symptoms may spend hours in this circular pattern, which may make everyday life a struggle, impacting work, school, and/or personal relationships.  

 

It’s important to note that not every habit or routine is indicative of OCD. Bedtime routines, double-checking that the stove is off before you leave the house, and religious practices are positive functions of everyday life. The difference is the urge to engage in the behaviour in a ritualistic manner. An individual with OCD may feel compelled to engage in ritualistic acts, even though they can be time-consuming and increase one’s anxiety or distress. However, in their minds, if they don’t perform these compulsions, something negative may occur. 

 

Research shows these symptoms come and go over time—easing at some points in your life, or perhaps worsening in others. Stressful events, for example, may trigger OCD symptoms and make them more severe.  

 

What are the common subtypes of OCD? 

 

Like most mental health conditions, OCD isn’t a one-size-fits-all disorder. Different individuals may suffer from different obsessions and compulsions. 


Here are six common OCD subtypes 

 

  • Contamination OCDPeople who have this subtype of OCD may fear coming into contact with contaminated substances, like household chemicals, body fluids, dirt, or germs. These individuals may fear contracting an illness and spreading it to other people. 
  • Harm OCD: Individuals with Harm OCD may fear acting on an impulse and hurting oneself or others. They could also have intrusive violent images replaying in their mind.  
  • Pedophilia OCD (POCD): This subtype is characterized by thoughts, urges, or mental images of sexual behaviour with children. There are often strong feelings of shame associated with this form of OCD, and individuals may have an understandably challenging time sharing their thoughts.  
  • Religious/Moral OCD (Scrupulosity): For people with this subtype pf OCD, they may feel compelled to follow rules and be fearful of violating religious or moral rules.  
  • Just Right OCDThis subtype, also referred to as Perfectionism OCD, can compel an individual to repeat actions until they feel just right. This can be repeatedly rearranging the same item until the right or desired feeling is achieved.   

As for what causes OCD, experts aren’t totally clear, although genetics, environment and biological factors are thought to play a role in the development of this disorder. While symptoms may start at a young age, it commonly impacts individuals in their teen years or early adulthood. OCD may be comorbid with other mental health conditions like depression and other anxiety disorders, as well as substance use.  

 

Can OCD be treated? 

 

People living with OCD may be hesitant to get help as there may be shame associated with their obsessions and compulsions. But they are not alone. It’s estimated that about one in 40 adults will be impacted by OCD.  

 

Treatment for OCD may involve psychotherapymedication, or a combination of those two. Treatment can be effective, and comorbidities must be taken into account when treating this disorder. Certain types of psychotherapy, particularly cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), have been found to be helpful when treating OCD 

 

Exposure and Response Preventiona type of CBT, may help reduce compulsive behaviours. The idea is this: individuals are exposed to the obsession that triggers them—like touching a household chemical—and are then prevented from performing the related compulsion—like washing their hands. Ideally, patients learn to tolerate feelings of discomfort and anxiety without perpetuating the ritualistic patterns. 

 

What does living with OCD look like? 

 

While OCD is a chronic condition, it may be possible for symptoms to be managed with individualized treatment. The first step is getting a proper diagnosis, as OCD needs to be diagnosed through a physical and a psychological examination.  

 

OCD may feel overwhelming and defeating at times, but there are tools and treatments that aim to address distressing patterns and increase quality of life. The key is working with a professional who understands the cycle of obsessions and compulsions, and who can develop strategies to overcome it. 

 

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