OCD Common Types:

Technically, there aren’t any distinct OCD subtypes. But there are “types” of typical symptom categories that can be identified. These are based on parallels between the substance of the obsessive thoughts and the coping mechanisms used by the individual. Although someone with obsessive-compulsive disorder may experience any kind of obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors, the following types are the most frequently reported:

Sexual or Combative ideas: The dread of hurting others, of striking out violently, or of having persistent images of violence and aggression is a typical sort of obsession. These kinds of ideas can also be sexual, such as worrying that you’ll act inappropriately during a sexual encounter or having disturbing, recurrent sexual imagery. There may be further underlying compulsions, but these types of obsessions are frequently accompanied by the need for validation of one’s goodness.

Harm to loved ones: Some people’s greatest concern isn’t necessarily that they’ll hurt someone, but rather that something bad will happen to the people they care about. For instance, a person could become fixated on the idea that their child will suffer harm in a car accident. Although compulsive behaviors can take many different forms, they are frequently utilized to stop harm from happening.

Germs and contamination: People frequently equate OCD with a fear of germs and a compulsive desire to wash their hands, and this is a prevalent characteristic. Many persons with obsessive-compulsive disorder have a phobia of germs or other forms of contamination and may avoid situations or engage in certain activities as a result. Additionally common are compulsive hand washing and cleansing.

Uncertainty and incompleteness: Recurrent ideas that one hasn’t completed or done something partially might result from OCD. A person who questions if they locked the door when leaving the house is an example. Obsessive thoughts of this nature frequently result in compulsive checking behaviors, such as repeatedly checking the latch on the door.

Sin, morality, and religion: Some people have an unhealthy obsession with moral failure or transgression. They could obsessively pray or repeatedly seek forgiveness.

Symmetry and order: An OCD fixation that is extremely widespread is having things organized “just so.” People who have similar beliefs tend to spend excessive amounts of time imagining symmetry or organizing and ordering stuff. Additionally, they could have particular superstitions around patterns, symmetry, and numbers.

Self-control: Many people with OCD suffer a dread of losing control and acting in an unacceptable way. In connection with violent or sexual obsessions, some people may worry about shouting something out in public, while others may worry about hurting someone. This kind of obsession may result in any compulsive behavior, but it can also cause isolation because the person may shun social situations.

Causes:

Although the precise causes of OCD are unknown, some elements are thought to be involved.

Biological causes: According to one explanation, OCD is caused by a malfunction in the brain circuit that “censors” or filters the numerous thoughts, ideas, and impulses that we experience daily. Your brain could struggle to decide which thoughts and urges to suppress if you have OCD. You might consequently experience compulsions and/or obsessions. Serotonin problems may be connected to the breakdown of this system.

Family history: If the disorder runs in your family, you may also be at higher risk. According to research, there is a 25% risk that another close family member will also have OCD if you, a parent, or a sibling do.

Genetics: Although no single “OCD gene” has been discovered, several gene families or clusters may be connected to OCD.

Stress: OCD symptoms can be severely exacerbated by a variety of sources of stress, including those related to work, relationships, health, childbearing, and academic challenges.

OCD symptoms can manifest themselves in a variety of ways. OCD can also coexist with other mental health issues, such as schizophrenia, anxiety, a tic disorder, or postpartum obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Treatment can assist, no matter what symptoms you have.

Speak to your primary care physician or a therapist if your OCD symptoms cause you difficulty managing your everyday obligations and interpersonal connections. They can assist you in locating the best therapy to help you develop coping mechanisms for OCD.