5 Signs of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Are you noticing persistent, unwanted thoughts or repetitive behaviors you can’t control? These could be signs of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Read on to learn the symptoms of OCD so you can get the relief you need.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that affects anyone at any age. While you might like your things neat or find yourself double-checking to make sure the stove got turned off, OCD involves a cycle of intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that can interfere with your daily life.

Our JC Health Group team in Colonial Heights, Virginia, led by Jessy Nwuba, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC, possesses the expertise to help you recognize the signs of OCD, enabling you to access the necessary support.

Five common signs include:

1. Intrusive and unwanted thoughts

If you have OCD, you often experience disturbing thoughts or mental images that feel uncontrollable. These obsessions can involve fears of contamination, harming others, or something terrible happening if a certain action isn’t taken. The thoughts are persistent and unwanted, causing significant anxiety or distress.

2. Repetitive behaviors or rituals

To relieve the anxiety caused by your obsessions, you may perform rituals or compulsions (repetitive behaviors you feel driven to do). Common compulsions include:

Excessive hand-washing
Checking locks or appliances repeatedly
Counting in specific patterns
Arranging items “just right”

These actions may offer temporary relief, but the urge to repeat them often returns quickly.

3. Fear of contamination

If you have a significant fear of germs, dirt, or illness, you’re not alone. This type of fear is a hallmark of OCD for many people. It can lead to compulsive cleaning or avoidance of public places, handshakes, or touching certain objects.

The level of fear is often disproportionate to the actual risk and can severely disrupt daily routines.

4. Need for symmetry or exactness

You may have a powerful need for things to be symmetrical, aligned, or in a specific order. This might involve arranging items on a desk or shelf, rewriting words until they “look right,” or walking in a certain pattern.

Deviations from the “correct” arrangement can cause intense anxiety.

5. Time-consuming routines that interfere with life

OCD is more than a personality quirk. It can also be debilitating. When obsessions and compulsions take up an hour or more each day or interfere with work, school, or relationships, it may be time to seek help.

Dr. Nwuba offers effective treatment for OCD. With the right support, you can experience relief and regain control of your life.

When to seek help

If you or a loved one is struggling with obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors, you don’t have to manage these urges by yourself. Dr. Nwuba is a highly sought-after mental health provider who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), particularly exposure and response prevention (ERP), is one of the most effective treatments for OCD.

Contact our friendly office staff at JC Health Group today to book an appointment. We’re ready to help!