Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD is often misunderstood. It is a type of Anxiety Disorder and is much more severe than people think. It’s not just about cleaning and everyone does not have a little bit of OCD. It can be debilitating and is one of the worst disorders to have. It does however bring its own strengths though. Now let’s look at what forms OCD.

Symptoms of OCD

  • Constantly checking things over and over – car door locking
  • Symmetry obsessions
  • Hoarding
  • Obsessions mentally (repetitive worries or thoughts)
  • Isolation
  • Contamination obsessions
  • Constant worry or fears
  • Distressing images in head
  • Constantly replaying past memories over and over

The main example that I use when explaining OCD is the Intrusive thoughts. Many people like being clean and tidy, but it doesn’t mean they all have OCD. Intrusive thought are an integral part of life for most people with OCD.

Let’s look at some of the very worrying intrusive thoughts that someone with OCD may have.

Please also remember that most people with OCD don’t ever act upon these thoughts, but have to fight really hard to not do anything with the thoughts.

  • Wanting to jump off a cliff or high rise building.
  • Throwing babies or pets.
  • Punching a loved one for no reason.
  • Swearing randomly when its really quiet/shouting at someone.
  • Driving their car off the road.
  • Jumping in front of train track or car.
  • Running through a window.
  • Constantly thinking about their family dying.
  • Thinking about touching a friend inappropriately even though they don’t find them attractive.
  • Wanting to laugh when someone has died or had bad news.