What Is Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a neurobiological illness, and is listed as such in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5). OCD is characterized by intrusive, unreasonable thoughts and/ or fears (also known as obsessions) that commonly lead to compulsive, repetitive behaviors (also known as compulsions). The precise cause as to why an individual may develop obsessive-compulsive disorder remains unknown. OCD can manifest and affect people of all ages. There is no single test used to diagnose OCD, rather the diagnosis process for obsessive-compulsive disorder typically includes several components. The initial steps of the diagnosis process typically includes a thorough physical exam as well as conducting various blood tests to ensure symptoms are not the cause of another disorder. A psychological evaluation is essential, as it provides insights into an individual’s behavior patterns, symptoms, thoughts, and feelings. The purpose of these tests are to provide the evaluating clinician with the needed information to determine if the individual’s obsessions and/ or compulsions are actively interfering with his or her ability to function and adversely affecting his or her quality of life.
OCD CATEGORIES
Obsessive-compulsive disorder can present in different ways. As such, several unofficial OCD categories have been established. The most common OCD categories individuals fall into include the following, as provided by Healthline:
Washers: fearing contamination, compulsively engaging in personal hygiene rituals (e.g. washing hands, showering, washing feet…etc.)
Checkers: repeatedly looking at and checking things such as alarm systems, lights, locks…etc.
Doubters: continuously afraid that if something is not done perfectly the individual will be punished and/ or it will result in something terrible occurring.
Hoarders: collecting things for fear that something bad may occur directly as a result of throwing items away.
Arrangers: must have everything arranged to perfectly reflect order and symmetry.
Counters: the need to compulsively count things (e.g. steps, bottles, letters…etc.) and/ or have irrational superstitions connected to certain numbers.
Some individuals may exhibit symptoms related to multiple categories, although it is most common for an individual to experience symptoms as they primarily relate to one of the above categories.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Every individual is different and may exhibit a unique set of OCD symptoms. As provided by the National Institute of Mental Health, examples of common symptoms related to OCD could include any of the following:
Compulsive counting
Arranging and/ or ordering items in the same, symmetrical, precise way
Excessive cleaning and/ or hand washing
Repeatedly checking on things
Irrational fear of oneself or others getting hurt
Religiously preoccupied
Avoiding touching things for fear of contamination
Research has found that stress itself, does not induce OCD, but it can exacerbate its symptoms. While some individuals may only experience one component of OCD (obsession or compulsions) many individuals with OCD do struggle with both obsessions and compulsions.
FOR INFORMATION AND SUPPORT
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one in regards to mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. There is an entire network of professionals that are readily available to help and support you and your loved one throughout every step of the recovery process.
If left untreated, substance abuse, addiction, and/ or mental illness can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. Please do not hesitate to reach out for guidance. We are always available to answer any questions, and are certainly happy to discuss how we might best be able to help in the recovery process.