When most people think of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), they imagine someone obsessively washing their hands or lining up objects perfectly. And while those are real experiences for some, OCD is much broader and more complex that many people realize.
In fact, there are several different types of OCD, and not all of them involve visible rituals or a focus on cleanliness. Considering that roughly 3 million people in the U.S. live with OCD, it’s important to recognize this disorder and how it can look different for different people. If you or someone you love is experiencing signs of OCD, understanding the unique forms can help.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the types of OCD, including those that are less commonly recognized, and remind ourselves that no matter what form it takes, help is available.
Contamination OCD (The “Classic” Type)
This is probably the most well-known type of OCD. It involves intense fears about germs, dirt, illness, or contamination. Common compulsions include excessive hand washing, avoiding touching certain objects, and the repeated cleaning of items or spaces. It’s worth noting that Contamination OCD is not just about being neat; it’s driven by overwhelming anxiety and the need to feel “safe” or “clean.”
Pure O (Primarily Obsessional OCD)
In Pure O, the focus is more on intrusive thoughts rather than visible compulsions. People with Pure O may have distressing thoughts, images, or urges they can’t control, and instead of performing external rituals, they may engage in mental rituals (like mentally checking, analyzing, or praying).
Common obsessions in Pure O are fear of harming others, intrusive sexual thoughts, or fear of committing immoral acts. Even if you can’t “see” the compulsion, it’s just as real and just as distressing as other forms of OCD.
Checking OCD
This type involves constant checking behaviors to prevent harm or avoid mistakes. Individuals might continuously check that doors are locked and appliances are off. They might also repeatedly review past actions to avoid imagined mistakes. This can be extremely draining for the person, but it’s not about being forgetful. It’s about easing unbearable anxiety or preventing imagined disasters.
Symmetry and Order OCD
For people with this type, things need to feel “just right,” whether it’s how items are arranged, how words sound, or even how movements feel. Common compulsions include arranging items symmetrically, repeating actions until they feel “right,” and counting or tapping in specific patterns. People with Symmetry and Order OCD may be pegged as “perfectionists,” but in reality, it’s about trying to soothe a deeper, powerful sense of internal discomfort.
Scrupulosity (Religious or Moral OCD)
Scrupulosity involves intense fears about being morally wrong or offending a religious belief system. The obsessions often revolve around worrying excessively about sinning, a fear of offending God, and the preoccupation with behaving perfectly according to moral standards.
In order to cope with these obsessions, individuals might carry out compulsions like excessive praying or confessing, seeking reassurance about moral decisions, or avoiding activities that might seem “wrong,” even though they are harmless. Religious or Moral OCD can look like deep faith, but it’s actually a fear-driven anxiety that can seriously disrupt someone’s daily life.
Relationship OCD (ROCD)
This lesser-known type of OCD causes obsessive doubts about relationships, even healthy ones. People might find themselves obsessing over whether or not they love their partner and if their partner is “the one.” They might also worry that they’re secretly unhappy in the relationship.
Because of these obsessions, people with Relationship OCD might seek constant reassurance, over-analyze their feelings, and compare their relationship to others’. Doubt is normal in relationships, but ROCD turns it into a cycle that’s hard to escape.
You Are Not Alone: Support is Available for OCD
If any of these types of OCD sound familiar, know that you’re not alone and that help is available. OCD is a medical condition, not a character flaw or personal failing. Whether the struggle is visible or hidden, it’s real, valid, and deserves support.
Treatment options like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) can make a huge difference. Many people find significant relief and learn tools to manage their symptoms effectively. Spearhead Health can connect you to the treatment options that will lead you to a calmer and freer life. Contact us today at (310) 561-1704 and let’s work toward healing, no matter what form of OCD you may be experiencing.