Types of OCD

There are several types of Obsessive Compulsive Disorders, which are sometimes also known as Obsessive Compulsive Neurosis, but the 5 main kinds are:

-    Washers and Cleaners: This type of OCD sufferers are obsessed with the fear of getting contaminated by germs, dirt, viruses and infections. As a result they feel the need to constantly wash their hands or have a shower numerous times a day.

-    Checkers: In this case, the individual is plagued with thoughts that he/she has forgotten to do something – usually to turn off a switch or lock a door – and that this will cause a great catastrophe leading to harm to himself or others. As a result these individuals are constantly involved in checking and re-checking switches, locks, doors, etc.

-    Orderers: In this case the individual has an obsession with keeping things in a particular order and is not able to focus or function until things are “just so”.

-    Hoarders: These Obsessive Compulsive Disorder type individuals collect items that they believe will be required by them. Some hoarders may collect items that others would consider garbage, while some may collect useful items such as salt packets. However, the individual’s obsession results in collecting far too many items that they will actually use in their lifetime.

-    Obsessers: These OCD sufferers repeatedly experience thoughts that show them harming themselves or others. To deal with this they indulge in certain repeated actions, such as counting in their head or on their fingers or repeating certain words.