Less-known OCD types
OCD can present in a variety of forms and can affect individuals in different ways. While the most well-known forms of OCD involve intrusive thoughts related to contamination, harm, or symmetry, there are also some rare and obscure forms of OCD that can impact an individual's daily life. Here is a list of some of the most obscure and rare forms of OCD and a brief description of each:
1. Harm OCD: This type of OCD involves intrusive thoughts about causing harm to oneself or others. These thoughts can be incredibly distressing and may lead to compulsive behaviors aimed at preventing harm, such as physical and mental checking or seeking constant reassurance from others.
2. Scrupulosity OCD: This type of OCD is characterized by intrusive thoughts related to religious or moral issues, such as blasphemy or impure thoughts. Individuals with scrupulosity OCD may engage in compulsive behaviors aimed at alleviating the guilt and anxiety associated with these thoughts, such as excessive praying or confessing.
3. Sexual Orientation OCD (SO-OCD or HOCD): This type of OCD involves intrusive thoughts or doubts about one's sexual orientation. Individuals with HOCD may experience significant anxiety and may engage in compulsive behaviors aimed at determining their sexual orientation, such as seeking constant reassurance from others or excessively monitoring their sexual thoughts and behaviors.
4. Illness Anxiety: This type of OCD involves intrusive thoughts or concerns about one's health and the fear of having a serious illness. Individuals with health anxiety OCD may engage in compulsive behaviors aimed at reducing anxiety and preventing harm, such as excessive checking for symptoms, seeking constant medical reassurance, or avoiding situations that may trigger their health anxiety.
5. Fear of getting pregnant or fear of getting somepne pregnant: This type of OCD involves fear of accidentally becoming pregnant or impregnating someone, excessive concern over birth control methods and fear of their failure, fear of having had unprotected sex without noticing (and, therefore, multiple checking behaviours), or fear of accidentally impregnating a woman after using a public shower or sauna, or as a consequence of not thoroughly washing hands. People with this OCD type usually feel that no amount of protection from pregnancy is enough.
It is important to note that these types of OCD may not be commonly recognized or understood by healthcare professionals. If you are experiencing symptoms of OCD, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional who is trained in treating OCD and can provide an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
