How to Test for OCD
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder characterized by repetitive thoughts and compulsive behaviors that significantly impede one's ability to carry on a normal life. Compulsions are behaviors such as repeated handwashing, counting and checking. Obsessions might be fears of terrible things happening or impulses to hurt someone. OCD goes beyond normal fears, worries or behaviors, and diagnosis can only come from a licensed professional.
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Instructions
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Learn about OCD by reading about its symptoms. The Obsessive Compulsive Foundation Website is a good place to learn about what symptoms to look for.
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Note whether you exhibit such OCD symptoms as constant worries, fears or thoughts; a need to check and recheck things; or a feeling that you must do things in a certain pattern or a specific number of times.
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Take a self-test for OCD. It can't officially diagnose OCD, but your responses may suggest further investigation. Print out your responses to show your doctor.
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Make an appointment with your doctor to talk about whether you might have OCD. Be sure and keep detailed notes of your obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors to show your doctor. Note when, where and how each symptom occurs, as well as how you felt.
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Respond to the doctor's questions about any OCD symptoms you may be experiencing. It can't be diagnosed through blood tests; it is diagnosed through the individual's description of his thoughts, feelings and behaviors.Inform your doctor if any of your symptoms interfere with your daily life. True OCD will significantly interfere with daily functioning.
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Fill out any questionnaires the doctor may give you about possible OCD symptoms. Such a questionnaire may ask you about your thoughts and behaviors in several areas, such as cleanliness, checking, hoarding, obsessive thoughts, repeating and ordering. Answer each question as accurately as you can.
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Make an appointment with a psychologist or other OCD specialist, and keep it, if your doctor refers you. Answer the specialist's questions about your symptoms and their severity, as you did with your doctor.
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Tips & Warnings
Online self-tests cannot officially diagnose you with OCD--only a licensed professional in the field of psychology or psychiatry can diagnose this disorder. Use any online test only as a screening tool, and seek further help from a professional when the results of such a test warrant it.
