You’re probably at least somewhat familiar with obsessive-compulsive disorder, or OCD. (If not, go check out some of my other blog posts!) However, did you know that there are many different subtypes of OCD, depending on the specific nature of a person’s obsessions and compulsions? Read on for an in-depth look at some of the subtypes of OCD.
Harm OCD
Many people with OCD have obsessions and compulsions related to harming themselves or others. For example, someone with harm OCD may have intrusive thoughts such as “I could drive my car off that bridge.” They may then completely avoid driving over that particular bridge, or constantly seek reassurance from others that they will not in fact drive off that bridge.
Note that harm OCD differs from suicidal (or homicidal) ideation — the obsessions associated with harm OCD are intrusive thoughts and do not necessarily reflect what that person wants to happen.
However, if you’re concerned that your thoughts of harm are true suicidal thoughts, reach out for help. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 24 hours a day, 7 days per week at (800) 273-8255.
Contamination OCD
Contamination OCD is the subtype of OCD that the general public is likely most familiar with. People with contamination OCD may have obsessions around coming into contact with germs, becoming infected with a deadly disease, or even spreading a disease to someone else. This may lead to compulsions including staying away from public spaces, avoiding touching certain surfaces, or excessive cleaning.
The COVID-19 pandemic certainly presents unique challenges for individuals with contamination OCD. I can help support you during this difficult time–reach out via phone or email so we can set up a time to talk.
Moral or Religious OCD
People with moral or religious OCD have obsessions around having committed a sin or “being bad” in some way. Compulsions associated with this subtype of OCD may include constantly seeking reassurance or forgiveness from other people or religious figures or thinking or doing things to “make up for” thoughts the person perceives as “bad.”
While it’s common for anyone to question whether they are making good decisions or behaving in alignment with their values or religion, people with this subtype of OCD are consumed by thoughts and behaviors to the point where their quality of life is impacted.
Relationship OCD
Relationship OCD is just what it sounds like–a subtype of OCD defined by obsessions and compulsions that are centered around relationships, most commonly intimate partner relationships. People affected by this form of OCD have intrusive thoughts about the suitability of their partner or whether their partner really loves them.
As a result of these obsessions, people with relationship OCD perform behaviors such as compulsive research into what constitutes a “good” relationship, ruminating about whether or not their partner is “the one,” or constantly comparing the relationship to the romantic relationships of others.
Of course, it’s healthy for a person to reflect on their relationship with their significant other–to an extent. If these thoughts and behaviors take up so much time and energy that they interfere with a person’s ability to live their life, they may have relationship OCD.
“Just Right” OCD
Another common subtype of OCD is “just right” OCD. People with “just right” OCD are plagued with the thought or sensation that certain things are not the way they should be. For example, they may have the nagging feeling that the items on their desk are not arranged in the “correct” way, so they continuously adjust the items until they “feel right.”
People with “just right” OCD may also experience compulsions around touching or tapping items, placing items down in a certain way, or a number of other behaviors. These all stem from the intrusive thought that something is incomplete or not quite right.
Getting help
This is not an exhaustive list! Whether you’re struggling with one of the above subtypes or a completely different form of OCD, help is here. Reach out today via phone or email to get support. Together, we’ll utilize the gold standard for treating OCD: exposure and response prevention, or ERP. We’ll identify your triggers and help you come up with new ways to cope so you’re not caught in an endless loop of obsessions and compulsions.
Ready to start feeling better? Reach out! I look forward to hearing from you.
