5 Signs of OCD in Adults

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) affects an estimated six million adults in the United States. Most people recognize a few of the signs of OCD in adults, such as obsessively ordering items to relieve anxiety. Still, they may not realize that other signs, such as hoarding, can interfere with daily life. The obsessive and compulsive behaviors can disrupt relationships and work.

Looking for Signs of OCD in Adults

If you are worried that you or a loved one has developed Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, you need to learn the signs of OCD in adults. These obsessions and compulsions operate in a cyclical pattern. Thoughts become obsessive, and the person feels anxious. In response to this anxiety, they react compulsively, doing something to feel better momentarily. These OCD cycles can consume a significant amount of time throughout the day.

The following are five common signs of OCD in adults.

1. Wanting Everything To Be Orderly
One of the most common signs of OCD in adults is aligning or ordering items to bring a sense of control to a situation. It may be the inside of the pantry, a closet, bathroom towels, or candies. The ordering may be by product, label, color, shape, or texture. Each item must match in symmetry. When the person sees order, they feel more in control and less anxious.

2. Uncontrollable Thoughts
Someone with OCD may experience intrusive and disturbing thoughts. These upsetting thoughts may be about themselves or others. They imagine themselves hurting someone they love. To counteract intrusive thoughts, they may adopt rituals, such as repeating a mantra or prayer. They may believe that if they do not complete their ritual, these thoughts will come true.

3. Excessive Worry About Getting Sick
If you suffer from OCD, you may excessively worry about germs and getting sick. You may obsess over cleanliness. Excessive handwashing, sanitizing, and cleaning may take up too much of your time. You may not be able to socialize with others or feel awkward when you shake hands. You may spend hours cleaning daily until you feel confident that you have eradicated any germs.

4. Excessive Fear of Being Hurt
When you worry about being hurt or a loved one harmed to the point of excessiveness, you become anxious and stressed. You imagine scenarios and may call a loved one several times until they arrive safely home. You may be too frightened to leave home or go on any trips. You may question strangers’ motives when you do go out. You constantly check appliances, locks, and doors, and call your family. You may create a ritual for checking these things to protect yourself and others.

5. Needing Reassurances and Approval
OCD signs interfere with relationships at work and home. The obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors cause you to seek reassurance and approval from others. You may ask repeatedly about your appearance or your home. Hoarding is a subtype of OCD, and you may seek approval from others to justify bringing one more thing into the home.

Christian Counseling for OCD in Los Angeles

Call our office today at LA Christian Counseling in California to schedule an appointment with a Christian counselor in Los Angeles. You could be on the way to managing your OCD symptoms with just one phone call.