Symptoms of Contamination OCD

Obsessions:
 

• Specific Fears: fear of specific contaminants, such as bodily fluids, chemicals, or diseases.

• Thought-Action Fusion: Belief that having a thought about contamination is equivalent to actually being contaminated.

• Catastrophic Thinking: Belief that contamination will lead to severe consequences.
   

Compulsions:
 

• Ritualistic Cleaning: Engaging in elaborate or repeated cleaning rituals, sometimes to the point of causing physical harm.

• Avoidance: Avoiding physical contact with objects, crowds, places, or people perceived as dirty. Refraining from touching certain objects or surfaces perceived as dirty or contaminated, or e.g., refraining from using public bathrooms due to fear of contamination. 

• Excessive Use of Protective Measures: Wearing gloves, masks, or other protective gear excessively.

• Requiring others around them to follow avoidant behaviours relating to contamination fears

• Excessive Washing: Washing hands far more often than necessary, often for extended periods, often characterised by excessive soap or scrubbing motions to ensure thorough cleanliness. Vigorously scrubbing the body to eliminate any perceived contaminants.

• Using Protective Measures: Wearing gloves or using other protective measures to avoid direct contact.

• Excessive Use of Hand Sanitisers: Applying hand sanitisers repeatedly throughout the day, even when hands are not visibly dirty.

• Excessive Cleaning of Personal Items: Engaging in repetitive cleaning rituals for personal belongings, such as phones, keys, or clothing.

• Avoidance of Shared Items: Avoiding sharing personal items with others to prevent perceived contamination.

• Showering or Bathing Rituals: Spending an excessive amount of time showering to ensure complete cleanliness.

• Compulsive Scrubbing: Vigorously scrubbing the body to eliminate any perceived contaminants.

 
Characteristics of Hygiene-Related Compulsions:
 

• Time-Consuming: Engaging in these hygiene rituals can be time-consuming, leading to disruptions in daily activities and routines.

• Interference with Daily Life: Compulsive hand washing and hygiene rituals can interfere with work, social activities, and relationships.

• Physical Consequences: Excessive hand washing and use of cleaning agents can lead to skin irritation, dryness, and even dermatological issues.

• Temporary Relief: While the compulsive behaviors provide temporary relief from anxiety, the distress typically returns, leading to a cycle of repetitive rituals.
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