What Are the Different Types of OCD?
OCD is a term that has become a part of our daily vocabulary today. Anyone with an obsession of keeping things clean and organised is pointed out for having OCD today. But is OCD that simple? Wanting to keep things clean? Unfortunately not! OCD, or obsessive-compulsive disorder, is a mental health condition. While it affects millions across the world, it can get out of hand and require professional help. Below, in this blog, we take a deep dive into the world of OCD, understand the condition, answer the question ‘What are the 4 types of OCD?’ and learn what to do.
What is OCD?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental disorder. It is characterised by obsessive behaviour that interferes with daily life. Persistent, repetitive behaviour like compulsion is what OCD looks like. Even though it's generalised with the obsession for cleanliness and organisation, OCD can be of different types, each of which has unique symptoms and challenges requiring a personalised treatment approach.
What Are the 4 Types of OCD?
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder can be of many types. However, mental disorder is categorised into four main types by psychiatrists.
1. Contamination and Cleaning OCD
People with contamination and cleaning OCD fear germs, dirt, and illnesses. They are seen obsessing about cleanliness and being ultra careful about hygiene, so much so that it looks abnormal. Frequent handwashing after touching a surface or an object, cleaning, or avoiding public places in fear of contamination are common symptoms. Some people have extended forms of the type with fear of mental contamination of negative thoughts from people. It leads them to conscious isolation.
2. Checking OCD
People with checking OCD have the compulsion to repeatedly check things. For example, if the door is locked, the microwave is turned off, the lights are switched off, the gas is turned off, etc. They do repeated checks on emails and even keep checking their phones and wallets. The compulsion stems from the extreme fear of making a mistake or causing accidents.
3. Symmetry and Ordering OCD
The third type of OCD is that of symmetry and order. People with this type of OCD want everything to be symmetrical, balanced, and precise. Some of the symptoms include wanting things to be in a particular order, feeling uncomfortable when things are not aligned, and counting or measuring things excessively to be perfect. The compulsion is so great that they can get angry at people not following their ways.
4. Intrusive Thoughts and Mental Compulsions OCD
People with this type of OCD keep a watch and are too scared to have thoughts about things that they consider taboo or wrong. For example, sex, violence, spiritual practices, etc. These people with the obsession to be good by their definition often punish themselves by engaging in activities such as soul cleansing through religious practices.
Other Types of OCD Disorders
While we have covered the four main types of OCD disorders, there are additional types that affect different people. Some of these are-
Hoarding OCD
Hoarding was previously considered a subtype of OCD. However, now psychiatrists consider it as a separate mental condition. Also, many people with OCD show co-occurring symptoms of hoarding. This means that the two conditions often go hand in hand. Hoarding makes it difficult for a person to discard anything, fearing that they may need it later. It involves keeping wrappers, papers, boxes, bags, and even matchboxes.
Relationship OCD (ROCD)
People with Relationship OCD have a tough time in relationships and make it difficult for their partners as well. They always doubt their partners and keep questioning them for assurance. Their fear of messed up relationships often makes them avoid commitment.
Harm OCD
People suffering from the condition have the fear of harming themselves or others by accident. They obsess over it so much that they go hysteric around anything that they find can be harmful or a weapon. For example, sharp or heavy objects.
Existential OCD
People with existential OCD are philosophical and obsess over finding the true meaning of life. They cannot find purpose and keep trying to find meaning. Their obsession shows through their conversations, and they are often isolated because they cannot feel excitement or fun in anything.
Types of OCD Symptoms
Similar to all mental disorders, identifying the types of OCD symptoms in time can help one to get early intervention and prevent things from getting complicated. Irrespective of the type of OCD one has, the common symptoms which is obsession and compulsion:
1. Obsessions (Intrusive Thoughts)
- Fear of germs and contamination
- Fear of death and accidents
- Disturbing thoughts - sexual/violence
- Obsession with following religious practices
- Obsession with balance, symmetry and perfectionism
2. Compulsions (Repetitive Behaviors)
- Frequent hand-washing
- Frequent checking of things - locks, appliances, or personal belongings.
- Repetitive counting, tapping hands or legs, or arranging items in a specific way
- Constantly seeking reassurance from others
- Avoiding people and public places for fear of contamination
What to Do When You Have OCD
If you or someone you know have the above symptoms and are showing obsessive behaviour, then here are a few key actions you must take-
1. Seek Professional Help
2. Educate Yourself
3. Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management
4. Challenge Your Obsessions and Compulsions
5. Seek Support from friends and family.
Treatment at Jagruti Rehab For Different Types Of OCD
At Jagruti Rehab, our team of experienced psychiatrists take a personalised approach to treating OCD. We also put importance on holistic wellness for the overall well-being of individuals when treating them for mental disorders like different types of OCD. While providing the best therapies from experts in psychiatry such as CBT and ERP, required for OCD, we support and encourage lifestyle changes.
Mental health conditions with early intervention can be managed well in time without having to suffer much. However, awareness and willingness to take action are key to wellbeing. At Jagruti Rehab, we are committed to spreading awareness and making mental health treatment accessible for everyone with telemedicine as well. Get in touch with us today and talk to our experts about the symptoms that you or your loved ones are experiencing without any judgment.
Frequently asked questions
The four main types of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder are contamination and cleaning, checking, symmetry and order, and intrusive thoughts. Each of the types has its unique set of challenges and shows individual symptoms.
People with OCD can live a normal life with treatment. While the treatment is different for types of OCD, it mainly includes therapy sessions and lifestyle changes. In some cases, prescription medicines may be needed.
OCD is a form of anxiety disorder. It comes with obsessive behaviour and compulsion. However, OCD personality disorder is a different condition. Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD) is a personality disorder. It stems from the need to control everything for the desired outcome. Perfectionism and orderliness are symptoms of the condition. While people with OCD may recognise their condition as a problem with awareness, people with OCPD mostly do not.
The three main symptoms of different types of OCD are:
- Obsessive Thoughts – Unwanted, persistent thoughts that cause distress around a need or fear.
- Compulsive Behaviors – Need to do repetitive actions to reduce anxiety and satisfy a particular need or fear.
- Avoidance – Avoiding triggers (places or people) that are not aligned with them can be disturbing.
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