Obsessions

These are unwanted, intrusive, and distressing thoughts, urges, or images that repeatedly enter a person’s mind. Common obsessions include:

Fear of germs or contamination

Fear of harming oneself or others

Intrusive sexual or violent thoughts

Extreme need for symmetry or order

Fear of forgetting or losing something important

Compulsions

These are repetitive behaviors or mental acts performed to reduce anxiety caused by the obsessions. Common compulsions include:

Excessive handwashing or cleaning

Repeated checking (e.g., locks, appliances)

Counting or repeating certain words

Arranging items in a specific order

Seeking reassurance repeatedly

Key Symptoms of OCD

Spending at least one hour a day on obsessions or compulsions

Obsessions or compulsions that interfere with daily life, work, or relationships

The person may realize the thoughts/behaviors are irrational but feels unable to stop