Introduction
Living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be overwhelming, isolating, and often misunderstood. At our psychiatric practice, we believe in shedding light on what OCD really is, how it impacts daily life, and—most importantly—how effective treatment can help individuals regain a sense of control and peace. In this blog, we’ll explore different aspects of OCD, from common symptoms and subtypes to evidence-based treatment options, offering insight, support, and hope for those affected by this complex condition.
What is OCD
Obsessive-compulsive Disorder is a disorder marked by uncontrollable and recurring obsessions and excessive compulsions, or both (National Institute of Mental Health, n.d.). Obsessions are “intrusive, recurrent, and persistent unwanted thoughts”, and compulsions are “repetitive behaviors or mental acts that an individual feels driven to perform” in response to their obsessions (Bokor, et al., 2014). There are many common myths about OCD—such as the idea that it’s just about being neat or organized—that can lead to misunderstanding and minimize the real challenges faced by those living with the disorder. Obsessive-compulsive disorder and other related disorders, such as body dysmorphic disorder, hoarding disorder, trichotillomania, and excoriation disorder have historically been underdiagnosed and undertreated, but rigorous research has led to better understanding of the disease, which has opened doors to better assessment options and treatment outcomes for patients (Stein, et al., 2019). OCD is the fourth most common mental disorder, following depression, substance misuse, and social phobia (BMJ, 2014).
Common Types of OCD
Compulsive checking is one of the most common ritualistic behaviors in obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), affecting at least 80% of individuals diagnosed with the condition at some point in their lives (Strauss et al., 2020). This behavior involves a persistent urge to repeatedly check certain things—often multiple times—to alleviate anxiety or prevent harm. Common examples include checking stoves, locks, lights, or candles, as well as seeking frequent reassurance from others or obsessively gathering information before making decisions (Strauss et al., 2020). These rituals are typically driven by a desire to reduce uncertainty and protect oneself from perceived or actual danger. However, compulsive checking can become a self-perpetuating cycle, as the relief it brings is often temporary and fails to provide the lasting sense of certainty the individual is seeking (Strauss et al., 2020).
Contamination OCD can manifest in various ways, but it often involves an intense fear of becoming “contaminated” by coming into contact with certain substances or objects. Common triggers include dirt, mud, germs, disease, and bodily fluids, among others (The Gateway Institute, 2024). These fears may stem from physical contact—known as contact contamination—or from mental contamination, where distress arises without any actual exposure to the feared substance or object (Mathes et al., 2019).
Intrusive thoughts are spontaneous, disruptive, and often difficult to control (Berry et al., 2012). While many people experience these types of thoughts occasionally, for individuals with OCD, they can become persistent, overwhelming, and deeply distressing—interfering with daily functioning and overall well-being.
Common examples of intrusive thoughts include:
- Thoughts of harming oneself or others
- Unwanted sexual thoughts
- Persistent negative self-talk
- Delusional or irrational beliefs
- Religious or blasphemous thoughts
These thoughts can be disturbing precisely because they are unwanted and conflict with the person’s values, often leading to intense anxiety or guilt.
Symmetry OCD is a subtype of obsessive-compulsive disorder characterized by an overwhelming need for balance, order, and things to feel “just right.” Individuals with this form of OCD may feel intense distress when objects are misaligned, uneven, or asymmetrical, and they may engage in repetitive behaviors such as arranging, counting, or touching items in specific ways to relieve anxiety. These rituals are often time-consuming and driven by a deep discomfort with disorder or a belief that something bad might happen if things aren’t perfectly aligned. Symmetry OCD can significantly interfere with daily functioning and quality of life, but with proper treatment, relief is possible.
What OCD Feels Like
Living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can feel like carrying an invisible burden—one that weighs heavily on both the mind and daily life. While OCD manifests differently for everyone, there are common emotional and psychological themes that often emerge.
1. Feeling Different from Others
A recurring experience among individuals with OCD is a deep sense of being different—isolated by thoughts and rituals others can’t see or understand (Bhattacharya & Singh, 2015).
“I don’t feel like other normal people… I have these strange thoughts. While going to college I have to travel by the same path I had taken earlier. This leads me to end up wasting a lot of time and energy. If I were like other normal people, I could just do anything and travel easily.”
This internal divide can create a sense of alienation—of living in a world where one’s mind constantly imposes rules and doubts that others don’t seem to face.
2. Disconnectedness
Living with OCD can be isolating, as intrusive thoughts, compulsions, and rituals are often misunderstood. Individuals may feel ashamed or embarrassed, leading them to hide their struggles from others out of fear of judgment or rejection (Bhattacharya & Singh, 2015).
3. Loss of Authentic Sense of Sense
OCD can erode a person’s sense of self, as intrusive thoughts and compulsions conflict with their true values and identity. Over time, this struggle can cause individuals to question who they really are, blurring the line between genuine intentions and irrational fears (Bhattacharya & Singh, 2015).
4. Powerlessness and Lack of Control
OCD often leaves individuals feeling powerless (Bhattacharya & Singh, 2015). Despite knowing their thoughts are irrational, the intense anxiety makes resisting compulsions feel impossible. This cycle can create a sense that the disorder is in control, eroding confidence and fostering feelings of helplessness.
5. Guilt and Self Blame
OCD can cause intense guilt, as individuals often feel responsible for intrusive thoughts that go against their values. Even though these thoughts are unwanted, they may blame themselves, leading to shame and distress that fuel the OCD cycle.
How OCD is Treated
Studies have shown that prolonged use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) is among the most effective treatment options for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) (Del Casale et al., 2019).
There are two primary therapeutic approaches to treating OCD. The first is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and changing maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors (Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety, n.d.). The second is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), a specialized form of CBT that is frequently used alongside it.
ERP—also known as Exposure and Ritual Prevention—specifically targets the compulsions characteristic of OCD. This approach involves gradually exposing individuals to anxiety-provoking thoughts, images, or situations (exposure), while simultaneously helping them resist the urge to engage in ritualistic or compulsive behaviors (response prevention) (Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety, n.d.). Over time, this method helps reduce anxiety and disrupt the cycle of obsessions and compulsions by correcting distorted cognitive patterns.
Research suggests that the most effective treatment regimen for OCD combines an SSRI with CBT or ERP, as this dual approach addresses both the neurochemical and behavioral aspects of the disorder (Del Casale et al., 2019).
How We Can Help
At ONE, we offer compassionate, personalized care for individuals struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). We understand that OCD can deeply affect daily life, and we’re here to help with evidence-based treatments such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and medication management when needed. Our close-knit team creates a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered on their journey toward healing and control over their symptoms.
If you or someone you love is struggling with OCD, please contact our office at 614-745-0306 to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward support, healing, and lasting relief.
References
Asher Y. Strauss, Isaac Fradkin, Richard J. McNally, Omer Linkovski, Gideon Emanuel Anholt, Jonathan D. Huppert, Why check? A meta-analysis of checking in obsessive-compulsive disorder: Threat vs. distrust of senses, Clinical Psychology Review, Volume 75, 2020,101807, ISSN 0272-7358
Bhattacharya, A., & Singh, A. R. (2015). Experiences of Individuals Suffering from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: A Qualitative Study. The Qualitative Report, 20(7), 959-981. Retrieved from http://nsuworks.nova.edu/tqr/vol20/iss7/2
BMJ 2014; 348 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.g2183 (Published 07 April 2014)Cite this as: BMJ 2014;348:g2183
Bokor G, Anderson PD. Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder. Journal of Pharmacy Practice. 2014;27(2):116-130. doi:10.1177/0897190014521996
Brittany M. Mathes, Katherine A. McDermott, Sarah A. Okey, Ana Vazquez, Ashleigh M. Harvey, Jesse R. Cougle, Mental Contamination in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Associations With Contamination Symptoms and Treatment Response, Behavior Therapy, Volume 50, Issue 1, 2019, Pages 15-24
Del Casale, A., Sorice, S., Padovano, A., Simmaco, M., Ferracuti, S., Lamis, D. A., Rapinesi, C., Sani, G., Girardi, P., Kotzalidis, G. D., & Pompili, M. (2019). Psychopharmacological treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Current Neuropharmacology, 17(8), 710–736. https://doi.org/10.2174/1570159×16666180813155017
Lisa-Marie Berry, Ben Laskey, A review of obsessive intrusive thoughts in the general population, Journal of Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders, Volume 1, Issue 2, 2012, Pages 125-132,
Stein, D.J., Costa, D.L.C., Lochner, C. et al. Obsessive–compulsive disorder. Nat Rev Dis Primers 5, 52 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41572-019-0102-3
Types of intrusive thoughts. Mental Health America. (2025, April 1). https://screening.mhanational.org/content/types-intrusive-thoughts/
Understanding CBT for OCD. Understanding CBT for OCD | Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety | Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. (n.d.). https://www.med.upenn.edu/ctsa/forms_ocd_cbt.html#:~:text=Cognitive%2Dbehavior%20therapy%20is%20a,called%20Exposure%20and%20Ritual%20Prevention
Understanding contamination OCD: Symptoms & care. The Gateway Institute. (2024, July 29). https://www.gatewayocd.com/contamination-ocd-symptoms-and-treatment/#:~:text=Common%20Obsessions%20of%20Contamination%20OCD&text=An%20extreme%20fear%20of%20becoming,bodily%20fluids%2C%20feces%2C%20or%20urine
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/obsessive-compulsive-disorder-ocd
