11 Subtle Signs Of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder That Everyone Should Know

If you think about Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, what comes to mind? Do you imagine someone washing their hands all day long, or organizing their closet by color? While those are definitely symptoms of the disorder, it's important to acknowledge the subtler signs of OCD, too.

Because, despite what we see in the movies, OCD is hardly ever as stereotypical as people think. While it's different for everyone, OCD is more often characterized by subtler, often unrecognizable, symptoms. That's not to say, however, that they aren't difficult to deal with — especially if you get stuck performing a cleaning ritual or double checking every door in your house.

While time-consuming and "strange," these rituals (compulsions) can help quell the bad thoughts (obsessions) that are typical of the disorder. As mental health therapist Mallory Grimste, LCSW says, "It is often common for people with OCD to experience great anxiety that if they do not complete their compulsion, something bad will happen."

While these types of issues can feel incredibly hopeless and ridiculously frustrating, there are treatments available for OCD. "Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and exposure techniques have been found to be very helpful in treating anxiety," Grimste says. "Medications may help for more severe symptoms as well." With that in mind, read on for some subtle signs you might have OCD. If anything sounds familiar, talk with a therapist ASAP so you can start feeling better soon.  

1. You Take Forever Getting Ready In The Morning

While there's nothing wrong with a leisurely morning routine, it is worth noting if your rituals consistently make you late. As licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Helen Odessky tells me, OCD sufferers often have difficulty leaving their house because things have to be "just right." You might find yourself going through a painstaking shower routine, for example, or trying to "perfect' your makeup. It really can be an infuriating and time-consuming process.

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