It’s normal for people to double check that they have turned the TV off before leaving the house but for an OCD sufferer this may turn into checking 20 times.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is something that interferes with a person’s daily life – and is something that is difficult to shake off.
According to helpguide.org it is an anxiety disorder that includes uncontrollable and unwanted thoughts, along with repetitive behaviours that people feel compelled to perform.
But what are the main symptoms of OCD? Here we reveal eight signs you may be suffering with the condition.
1. Hoarding
NHS.uk says that one of the symptoms of the condition is to hoard. If people are keeping so many items that it is difficult to move in the house or feel something bad will happen if they throw items away, then it may be a symptom of OCD.
2. Counting
Some people who suffer with the condition will find themselves constantly counting throughout their daily tasks.
Helpguide.org says that people with the condition may also like to arrange items. This means that they are obsessed with putting things in a symmetrical pattern or an order. They may also like only certain colours or numbers too.
3. Cleaning
This is the stereotypical act that is associated with OCD. The NHS says that people with the condition may clean areas a lot but this also includes hand washing too.
Sufferers may also have a fear of being contaminated by germs.
4. Feelings of Doubt
Some people who suffer with the condition will experience extreme feelings of doubt.
According to helpguide.org those with OCD may feel afraid that if jobs are not done perfectly something bad will happen or they could be punished.
5. Fears of Harm
This is another symptom of the condition. Some people repeatedly have thoughts and fears that they may harm themselves or others.
The NHS says this often a fear that the harm will be done by mistake by forgetting to unplug a charger, for example.
6. Checking
The charity Mind says that checking is a symptom of compulsion and this can come in a variety of different forms.
It can include checking whether doors are locked or checking clothes for contamination.
7. Asking for Reassurance and Repetition
A sufferer of OCD may constantly be asking friends and family if they will be okay.
(Image: Getty/ChristinLola)
If someone is always asking whether an event will be successful and need reassurance then they may have OCD.
The NHS also states that people who say things over and over again in their head may also have the disorder.
8. Intrusive Thoughts
Mind.org says that people who have intrusive thoughts may be suffering from the condition.
Some of these thoughts may include religious or blasphemous thoughts which are against your religion, thoughts which make you doubt a relationship you are in – feeling a partner’s feelings are not strong enough or thoughts that you will do something violent.
For those who are concerned they have OCD then the NHS advises that they make an appointment with their GP to discuss symptoms.
