Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a type of anxiety disorder. A person suffering from this disorder will have uncontrollable thoughts, or obsessions, as well as uncontrollable ritualistic behavior, called compulsions, that occur repeatedly. Although many people without OCD will experience instances of obsessive or compulsive behavior, these behaviors do not interfere with daily living like they do for people suffering from this disorder. Learning about the symptoms associated with OCD can enable a person to recognize when the disorder is present sooner and may enable early intervention and treatment.
Repetitive Rituals
The inability to stop repeating a certain activity, word or phrase can occur in people with OCD. The Anxiety Disorders Association of American (ADAA) explains that this behavior is typically an attempt to neutralize an unwelcome, negative obsessive thought. Repeatedly checking to see if a door is locked, an appliance is turned off or if the checkbook is balanced correctly are common examples of such behavior, affirms Dr. Henry Croft, chief medical director of HealthyPlace.com. Counting things, such as the number of cars that drive by or the number of tiles on a floor, is also common.
Excessive Cleaning or Washing
Persistent, irrational concerns about germs, dirt or contamination is another common symptom of obsessive-compulsive disorder. These thoughts can cause many ritualistic behaviors, says the ADAA, including repeatedly washing, bathing, brushing teeth or cleaning household items, possibly even for hours at a time.
Need for Order or Symmetry
People with OCD may have obsessive thoughts about the order, symmetry or arrangement of certain things. Many people feel the need to make everything "just so" and feel intense stress if something is out of place, the Mayo Clinic says.
Hoarding
OCD sufferers often worry that they will not have something they may need. Obsessive thoughts about this may cause them to hoard items and makes it difficult to throw anything away, states the ADAA, even if the item has little or no value.
Excessive Safety Concerns
Many people with OCD have an intense fear of harm coming to themselves or their loved ones, shares the Mayo Clinic. They may even fear bringing upon the danger by their own thoughts or impulses and often feel solely responsible for the safety of their loved ones. This can cause the person to check things excessively, such as repeatedly making sure doors are locked, that the iron is unplugged or that the oven was properly turned off, in an attempt to avoid dangerous situations.
Preoccupation with Religious Rituals or Superstitions
A preoccupation with religious rituals or superstitions is also common for people with OCD. Excessive religious or superstitious rituals are done in an attempt to neutralize the negative or unwanted thoughts that keep occurring. These rituals could include excessive praying or usual things like avoiding cracks in the sidewalk to attempt to ward off evil, explains Croft. Beliefs that certain colors, numbers or things are lucky or unlucky is common for some people with OCD.
