"I cried when I read your book...that was me you were describing. I thought I was the only one."

Sandra A., Miramar, Fla.
anxiety_disorders


How can I tell if it's obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)?

The symptoms of worry or the need to follow detailed routines or perform certain rituals that many people feel from time to time, or in certain situations, are not the same as the symptoms experienced by someone with OCD. To determine if you are suffering from OCD click Yes or No in response to the following questions:

Are you troubled by:
Unwanted ideas, images, or impulses that seem silly, nasty, or horrible? Yes No
Excessive worry about dirt, germs, or chemicals? Yes No
The fear of acting or speaking aggressively when you really don't want to? Yes No
Feelings that you must do certain things excessively, or thoughts you must think repeatedly, in order to feel comfortable? Yes No
The need to wash yourself or things around you excessively? Yes No
The urge to check things over and over again or repeat them many times to be sure they are done properly? Yes No
The avoidance of situations or people you worry about hurting by aggressive words or deeds? Yes No
The need to keep many useless things because you feel that you can't throw them away? Yes No

If you answered Yes to one or more of the above questions, you may have OCD and should consider seeking professional help.

Obsessive compulsive disorder is a treatable condition. To find out more about how The Ross Center for Anxiety & Related Disorders can help you overcome OCD and/or to schedule a consultation/diagnostic evaluation with Jerilyn Ross, the Center's director, or with another staff member, please call (202) 363-1010 or fill out the contact form.

Back to An Overview of Anxiety Disorders

Disclaimer: This site contains general reference information and is not intended
as a substitute for consulting with your physician or other healthcare professional.