Learn whether you may be living with OCD with this expert-reviewed test. After receiving your results, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about your symptoms and talk to a licensed therapist.
This mental health assessment is not a diagnosis or a substitute for licensed therapy. For more information on how to get scheduled with a qualified mental health professional, read our guide here.
Have you ever felt as though you might have OCD? If so, this test is for you. This test is not a substitute for an official diagnosis or mental health support from a qualified individual. This free online assessment is meant to provide insight into whether you have any symptoms associated with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. There are a variety of OCD symptoms, so this test is just meant to act as a possible gauge to support further investigation into your mental health. These ten quick questions can give you an insight into whether there is any possibility that you might have OCD. Since OCD can be a complex mental health condition, you can then reach out to a therapist near you for more information.
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The main symptoms of OCD are having intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. An individual with OCD may experience unwanted images or thoughts. They may also feel a need for balance or fear losing control. These intrusive thoughts can harm one’s mental health. OCD symptoms also include compulsive behaviors such as having rituals and rules.
The exact cause of OCD isn’t clear; it is thought to possibly be caused by a mix of genetics and environmental factors. Images of individuals’ brains with OCD demonstrate very small differences compared to those without the mental health condition. It is likely that the causes of OCD include a combination of factors.
OCD and its symptoms can be treated. One of the main treatment methods for OCD is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. In CBT, a therapist works with the individual to address and work on adapting any negative thoughts and behaviors. Another tactic a therapist might use is exposure therapy. In this form of therapy, people can face various fears and situations in a safe environment. Reach out to a therapist near you for more information.
If you think you have OCD but don’t score highly on this test, it’s worth it to talk to a mental health professional. One 10-question test cannot fully summarize everything there is to know about OCD. This test is meant to be a tool and a starting point. If you did not score highly but still think you have OCD or a different mental health disorder, talking to a therapist can help you get a diagnosis and find treatment options.
In the U.S., 2.3% of adults will have OCD at some point in their lives. There are countless therapists there to support them through it. You are not alone. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a proven way to treat OCD symptoms. By finding a therapist near you, you can get a customized treatment plan to meet your needs. Then you can choose between in-person or online therapy. With virtual therapy, you can receive OCD treatment from the comfort of your home. At Lifebulb, our therapists can provide a holistic online therapy experience for your OCD treatment.
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Although the exact cause of OCD is unknown, it is thought to have a big genetic component. Environmental triggers, like upbringing, trauma, and personality, can influence genetics to cause OCD as well.
Although not an official diagnosis, these are common types of OCD, which can be helpful in conceptualizing and understanding different aspects of OCD:
Contamination OCD – Fear of germs, dirt, or illness, often leading to excessive washing or cleaning.
Checking OCD – Repeatedly checking things (locks, appliances, or safety measures) to prevent harm.
Hoarding OCD – Difficulty discarding items, leading to clutter and distress.
Symmetry and Ordering OCD – Urge to arrange or align objects perfectly; discomfort if things feel “off.”
People with any of these types of OCD will receive a basic Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder diagnosis, although knowing what type of OCD you have can help with building a treatment plan.
A flare-up is when someone with OCD experiences a surge of intensity or frequency in symptoms. For example, an OCD flare-up could look like intense intrusive thoughts (Example: “My family is going to die.”), which leads to spending a long time engaging in compulsive behavior (Unable to get any work done because you believe that “If I look at the clock every time the second hand hits 60, my family will be safe.”)
OCD flare-ups can happen in response to something stressful, a reminder of a traumatic event, lack of sleep, changes to medication, substance use, or changes to routines.
The big difference between OCD and overthinking is the presence of compulsions. Overthinking can look a lot like intrusive thoughts. For example, catastrophizing that because you’re late to work means you’ll be fired and lose your house and become homeless can mimic the intrusive thought of losing everything.
However, OCD must have compulsions, either mental or physical behaviors that seek to soothe or negate the intrusive thought. For example, the intrusive thought of losing everything would be followed by a compulsion to count to seven, ensure everything at your desk is sitting at a 90-degree angle, or other unrelated compulsive behavior.
It can be hard to spot OCD, as much of it is a mental disorder that exists in the thoughts and emotions. But if you notice someone you love has intense anxiety and engages in ritualistic, repetitive behavior, they may have OCD. Encourage them to talk to a therapist about their anxiety. If they’re unsure, having them take a free, online OCD test first can help them recognize their symptoms.
Fighting OCD thoughts can be difficult, but not impossible. Therapy is the best way to fight OCD thoughts and recover from the disorder. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy is the most effective. During ERP, you will encounter situations that trigger your OCD. Then, you will engage in relaxation and mindfulness exercises and try not to engage in your compulsion. Over time, your brain will learn that nothing bad actually happens when you experience these intrusive thoughts, and the thoughts lose their power.