Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is often dramatized in the media, but not many fully understand the condition.

Yes, some people with OCD might overly organize, obsessively wash their hands, or perform certain rituals many times a day. But while this might be partially accurate, it doesn’t paint a clear and complete picture.

OCD is characterized by two main components:

  • obsessions: repetitive, unwanted thoughts or images
  • compulsions: repetitive, ritualized behaviors a person is driven to do

Although many people have experienced obsessions and compulsions at some point in their lives, if you have OCD, these thoughts and behaviors often interfere with daily life.

If you think you may have OCD, it’s natural to have many questions. Consider taking our brief screening test to help you determine whether you might need to be evaluated by a mental health professional.

This short, free OCD test is meant for anyone who thinks they may benefit from an evaluation for OCD.

The statements in this quiz can help you figure out whether you might need the support of a mental health professional for the symptoms you’ve been experiencing.

A therapist can also help you determine if your issues may be a symptom of a different mental health condition and recommend a treatment plan if necessary.

This online screening is not a definitive tool. It will not guarantee that you may be diagnosed with X condition.

But you can use this test as a self-screening tool to track your symptoms. It also might show your doctor how your behavior has changed from one visit to the next.

Only a trained medical professional, such as a doctor or mental health professional, can help you determine the next best steps for you.

Instructions

This is a screening measure to help you determine whether you might benefit from an evaluation by a mental health professional for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

For each item, indicate the extent to which it is true by checking the appropriate box next to the item.

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This online screening is not a diagnostic tool. Only a trained medical professional, like a doctor or mental health professional, can help you determine the next best steps for you.

This quiz can’t replace a clinical diagnosis. If you believe you might have bipolar disorder or another condition after taking this test, consider reaching out to a qualified professional about your symptoms.

What are the 4 types of OCD?

It’s important to note that more than 4 types of OCD exist. There are many different types to consider, which include:

  • contamination OCD
  • relationship OCD
  • harm OCD
  • religion OCD

But specific types of OCD aren’t distinguished in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, text revision (DSM-5-TR). For more information consider visiting Psych Central’s resource page on various types of OCD.

How do you test if I have OCD?

If you believe you live with OCD, screening tools and questionnaires are available to help you identify signs and symptoms you may be experiencing.

But consider speaking with a mental health professional to help make a proper diagnosis. Professionals often use the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, text revision (DSM-5-TR) as a guideline for diagnosing OCD.

What are 5 symptoms of OCD?

Obsessions and compulsions are two types of symptoms associated with OCD. Examples of obsessions, or unwanted thoughts, could include:

  • images of hurting others or yourself
  • thoughts you consider immoral, bad, or shameful
  • urges to do something you don’t want to do

Some examples of compulsions include:

  • repeating words or phrases mentally
  • hand-washing, cleaning and grooming to avoid contamination
  • excessively repeating an action
  • counting or performing other rituals to prevent harm

Is OCD neurodivergent?

Yes. Neurodivergent is an umbrella term to describe someone living with brain function outside of what’s typical for the majority, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and OCD.

Ready to start therapy? Our Find a Therapist resource may help.