Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental illness that includes obsession and compulsion. This is a mental state where people usually suffer from unwanted stressful thoughts that can be hidden in a habitual act or behavior.
Research also indicates that OCD is caused by cognitive, environmental, genetic, and neurocognitive factors. People with OCD usually have some level of distress, severity, or frequency of obsessions and compulsions due to chronic OCD.
This blog will walk you through OCD, the types of obsessive-compulsive disorder, the diagnostic process, effective management and treatment, and how Shine Mental Health can be a support system throughout the journey.
What Is OCD?
OCD is a mental health condition that is characterized by intrusive thoughts, repetitive thoughts, or an unwanted compulsion to do specific actions repeatedly (compulsion). Each phase (obsession/compulsion) has different types of intensity. Continue reading to learn more about the forms of OCD.
Understanding the 4 Primary Types of OCD
There are four types of obsessive-compulsive disorders, each of which can be categorized with various manifestations and are largely dependent on geographic location, cultural influences, and individual differences.
However, research has reported that people with Contamination OCD are widely found across the globe. Let’s discuss the four main types of OCD, how each is different from the others, and what signs make the difference.
Contamination OCD
An obsession with contamination from dirt, germs, or pollutants characterizes contamination OCD. People with this type of OCD are obsessed with the fear that they will come in contact with anything contaminated and dirty. So, they follow up with more cleaning and behaviors that help get them away from the immediate contamination.
Signs May Include:
- Excess showering or washing.
- Avoid public places that might feel contaminated.
- Washing your hands right after touching or sharing any object with others.
- Persistent thought leads to distress.
Checking OCD
Checking obsessive-compulsive disorder is when a person has an uncontrollable thought that something horrible will occur if specific tasks are not done in time or some conditions are not met. A person with OCD in the checking subtype frequently checks things such as locks or switches, or continues to check that something did not cause disaster/harm.
Signs May Include:
- Repeatedly asking others for confirmation/validation.
- Constantly check switches and locks repeatedly, for fear of harm.
- Fear of causing harm to oneself.
Symmetry and Ordering OCD
Symmetry obsessive-compulsive disorder is a type of OCD in which individuals are stuck organizing things to be symmetrical, orderly, or perfectly arranged. People suffering from this type of OCD may feel more distressed unless these items are placed according to their sequence.
Signs May Include:
- Organizing objects and compulsively arranging things.
- Inability to relax until the items or products are arranged symmetrically.
- Distress or anxiety when faced with disorder or chaos.
Intrusive Thoughts OCD
OCD Intrusive Thoughts are a type of obsession in OCD that generally comes in the form of unwanted sexual/violent/blasphemous thoughts or images. Sufferers may feel ashamed, guilty, or anxious about these thoughts even though they have not the slightest desire or intention.
Signs may include:
- Disturbing thoughts that trigger the OCD.
- Avoidance of the triggers that may provoke violent thoughts.
- Intrusive thoughts about harming oneself or others.
Can OCD Symptoms Evolve Over Time?
Yes, mild OCD symptoms can easily evolve with factors such as age, stress, and life circumstances. What might start as a checking behavior in childhood might shift to fear of contamination in adulthood, and symptoms can also change the situation with frequency and intensity.
How Triggers and Expression May Shift
The triggers and expressions may shift over time, based explicitly on the environment or responsibilities. For instance, someone obsessed with cleanliness might begin to talk to bosses about safety measures, meaning the anxiety remains intact, but the focus can shift well.
What Causes OCD to Develop in the First Place?
There is not a single factor that can be the cause of OCD development in the first place. However, research has highlighted several factors around the individual that can help develop any obsessive-compulsive disorder. It may include neurological, environmental, genetic, and risky situations.
How OCD Is Diagnosed: And Why It Often Goes Missed
OCD can be diagnosed through clinical interviews and symptom assessment, but most of the time, it’s overlooked. Many people tend to hide their OCD out of shame, or maybe the reason could be misdiagnosed anxiety and depression. However, understanding and recognizing the symptoms is the key to getting help for any psychological condition.
Treating OCD: From Therapy to Medication and Beyond
The most effective treatment for all types of OCD is ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) therapy, which is a type of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). It helps an individual with the symptoms that constantly appear due to stress.
In addition, a few more therapies include art, adventure, and group therapy to help individuals manage symptoms. Meanwhile, certain medications can be given to OCD patients to help them, but an expert or licensed expert should always prescribe them.
You’re Not Alone – Shine Mental Health Can Help You Find Answers
Shine Mental Health is here to help you through the emotional roller coaster. We get that it is so hard to look for help when your OCD symptoms make you feel suffocated. If you are searching for a diagnosis, medication, and treatment options and our team is with you through every step. We help you with a treatment plan that best suits you. Asking for help is a sign of strength. Reach out to Treat Mental Health today by filling out the form or emailing us. Let us walk together on the road to wellness!
FAQs
What are the four types of OCD?
The four types of obsessive-compulsive disorder include Contamination OCD, Checking OCD, Intrusive Thoughts OCD, and Symmetry and Ordering OCD
What are common OCD symptoms?
Common OCD symptoms include compulsions, repetitive behaviors, looking for validation, and unwanted thoughts.
Can OCD symptoms change over time?
Yes, OCD symptoms can change over time, which means they keep fluctuating. It may come, go, improve, or get worse.
What causes OCD to develop?
There is not one specific thing that triggers or causes OCD. Research has shown that various factors contribute to OCD, including genetics, biochemical interactions, environmental effects, psychological factors, and sometimes trauma.
What therapy is best for OCD?
Research has shown that Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a type of CBT that helps people manage OCD symptoms. ERP helps people overcome their fears without causing compulsive behavior.
