Depictions of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) often focus on external behaviors, like frequent handwashing or cleaning. This can give the impression that OCD is just a personality quirk or oddity. But what really defines OCD is the internal struggle—the tortuous doubts and repetitive thoughts that plague those with the condition.
Our OCD Subtypes: Examples sheet paints a picture of what it’s really like to have OCD through vignettes of six common OCD subtypes:
- contamination & health
- checking & control
- moral & religious purity
- harm & violence
- perfection and symmetry
- relationships
Use this info sheet to help clients and their loved ones better understand the severity of OCD and some of its typical manifestations. Share this resource with newly diagnosed clients to help normalize their experience or explain it to others. Keep in mind this info sheet is not exhaustive—some clients will have OCD concerns not covered here.
We recommend pairing this resource with our What is OCD? info sheet, both of which support the psychoeducation phase of treatment.
