How to Recognize the Symptoms of OCD

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common psychiatric condition. Classified as an anxiety disorder or neuroses, OCD affects people from all walks of life. The intrusive thoughts and rituals that characterize the disorder can make life difficult if you go without treatment. Learn to recognize the symptoms so you'll know if you need to get help.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Recognize the Symptoms of OCD

1. Recognize intrusive thought patterns and the overpowering urge to perform ritual actions. These are the hallmarks of OCD.
2. Take note of your ability to control these thoughts and actions. The less able you are to control them, the more likely it is that you have OCD.
3. Be aware of feeling a build up of anxiety or stress if you do not perform your rituals. This is a strong indicator of OCD.
4. Realize that if you feel relief from anxiety after performing a ritual, this is also a symptom of OCD.
5. Take stock of your quality of life. If the obsessions and compulsions you are experiencing take hours to perform each day or otherwise interfere in your ability to enjoy life, you may have OCD.
6. Understand that you may not experience compulsions. Some OCD sufferers only experience obsessions.
7. Determine the rationality of your obsessions and compulsions. People who suffer from OCD know these things are not rational. This knowledge may not help you control the symptoms, however.

Tips & Warnings

• Self-diagnosis is never a good idea. It is easy for someone who is not a therapist to mistake normal worry for symptoms of OCD. Always see a psychologist or psychiatrist for an accurate diagnosis.
• The "obsessive" part of OCD refers to unwanted thoughts. These are thoughts that intrude upon your daily life and cause you distress. An obsession can be anything from wondering if you left the lights on at home to worrying that you will harm yourself or someone else (even though you have no intention of ever doing so).
• The "compulsive" part of OCD is physical action of rituals. These are rituals that you feel compelled to perform in order to relieve anxiety or prevent it. Repeated washing of hands and making sure all your belongings are grouped in threes or fours are examples of compulsions.
• Talk therapy has been shown to have a high rate of success in treating OCD. A psychologist trained in talk therapy can help you to manage your OCD symptoms.
• Medications exist to treat OCD. If you feel you need medication, visit a psychiatrist. Unlike psychologists, psychiatrists are able to prescribe medication.