Related Symptoms & Conditions
We're creating resources to help people learn about OCD in the many ways it impacts their own lives—not just what it looks like on paper. You can search our resources to determine when your intrusive thoughts may be related to OCD.
Bruxism, or teeth grinding, belongs to a category of conditions known as BFRBs—and the good news is that it's treatable.
By Grant Stoddard
Reviewed by Patrick McGrath, PhD
These are two distinct types of thoughts, but they can both carry a lot of fear and shame. Here’s what you can do about them.
By Jessica Migala
Reviewed by Patrick McGrath, PhD
In this article, we'll discover what trichotillomania (hair pulling) is, how it may cause balding, and how it can be treated.
By Grant Stoddard
Reviewed by Patrick McGrath, PhD
While OCD and psychosis are distinct conditions, they do share some potential connections and fascinating relationships.
By Grant Stoddard
Reviewed by Patrick McGrath, PhD
Let’s explore what body checking is, why it can become a mental health concern, and how to get it under control if it is.
Reviewed by Patrick McGrath, PhD
Discover if OCD can trigger derealization. Understand these complex conditions with our insights.
By Grant Stoddard
Reviewed by Patrick McGrath, PhD
Gain a deeper understanding of Illness Anxiety Disorder and OCD, and discover their unique differences for informed decision-making.
By Grant Stoddard
Reviewed by Patrick McGrath, PhD
Explore the impact of OCD on impulse control and uncover valuable insights to enhance your self-awareness.
By Cody Abramson
Reviewed by Patrick McGrath, PhD
Learn about false attraction in OCD, its difference from real attraction, and how to manage it through exposure and response prevention therapy.
By Melanie Dideriksen, LPC, CAADC
Reviewed by Patrick McGrath, PhD
Discover how to cope with intrusive thoughts about your body. Get insights, strategies and treatment options to take control and regain your confidence.
Reviewed by Patrick McGrath, PhD
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety are closely related. Obsessions often provoke anxiety, and compulsions—while done in an attempt to find
By Jill Webb
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
With recent news coverage of plane crashes, it’s reasonable to have some concerns about safety before booking a flight. While flying remains one of the
Have you ever found yourself lost in thought, only to realize you’ve been pulling out your hair? Or, maybe you frequently pick at your skin—fussing with
By Fi Lowenstein
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
OCD and substance use disorders (SUD) often occur at the same time, with drugs and alcohol providing a temporary escape from intrusive thoughts and
Compulsions and addictions both involve urges, but compulsions are fueled by anxiety or fear whereas addictions are driven by pleasure or escapism.
By Jill Webb
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
OCD is fueled by a loop of obsessions and compulsions, with mental compulsions—often understood as thought patterns—playing a major role in this cycle.
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
Daydreaming can be a way to relax or explore your creative side, but if making up imaginary situations becomes excessive or interferes with daily life, it
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
Maladaptive daydreaming is excessive daydreaming that can interfere with daily life and can become a compulsive behavior for people with OCD. Exposure and
Reviewed by Samantha Sullivan, MSW, LICSW
Have you ever had a thought or image pop up in your head that made you feel anxious, uncomfortable, or even scared? You could be driving past some
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC
Compulsive skin picking isn’t just a bad habit—it can be part of a cycle that temporarily eases distress but ultimately leads to more frustration and skin
Reviewed by April Kilduff, MA, LCPC