Symptom Checklist: Do I Have OCD? pdffile

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be challenging to recognize, as it involves both intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). If you find yourself frequently caught up in unwanted thoughts or feel driven to perform certain actions to reduce anxiety, it may be a sign of OCD. Common symptoms include excessive checking, cleaning rituals, counting, or needing things to be perfectly arranged. Understanding these symptoms can help identify if professional support is needed.

1. Symptom Checklist: Do I Have OCD?
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that goes far
beyond being particular about neatness or organization. It involves intrusive
thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that can take a toll on
your daily life. Understanding the symptoms is the first step toward seeking help.
Here’s a detailed checklist to help you recognize the
signs of OCD:
 Intrusive Thoughts:
Do you experience persistent, unwanted thoughts, fears, or urges that are hard
to control? These could include fears of contamination, harm to yourself or
others, or a need for symmetry and order.
 Compulsive Behaviors:
Do you feel the need to perform rituals or
repetitive actions, such as excessive
handwashing, counting, checking locks,
or arranging items in a specific way?
 Time-Consuming Habits:
Do these behaviors consume significant amounts of your time—more than an
hour a day and disrupt your daily activities?

2.  Anxiety Relief Through Rituals:
Do you perform these behaviors to temporarily reduce your anxiety, only to
have the cycle repeat itself?
 Impact on Relationships and Work:
Have these obsessions or compulsions affected your relationships, school
performance, or work productivity?
If you’ve answered “yes” to several of these questions, it’s a good idea to consult a
mental health professional. OCD is manageable with the right treatments,
including therapy and sometimes medication. Early intervention can significantly
improve your quality of life.