What Are The Different Types of Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders?

There are several different conditions on the Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum. While the most well-known condition is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), there are other similar conditions too.

Each condition involves obsessions, and normally subsequent compulsions. These conditions are typically long-lasting. In this article, we take a look at the different conditions in the spectrum.

The different conditions within this category are quite similar. However, there are crucial differences – which are useful to know.

Treatment plans can range slightly between the conditions – therefore knowing the exact condition an individual suffers from is important. Causes and diagnostic criteria can range from condition to condition.

What is the Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum?

Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum: The Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum consists of a range of conditions that share the hallmark of obsessive and compulsive behaviours. An obsession is an unwanted and unpleasant thought, doubt, image or urge that repeatedly enters a person’s mind. A compulsion is a repetitive action that the person then carries out to temporarily relieve the anxiety brought on by the obsession. There are many conditions that fall into this category – with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) the most well-known.

What are the different conditions on The Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): This is a debilitating condition that involves an individual having regular obsessions and compulsions. The individual involved will have repetitive thoughts, behaviours or urges. Unfortunately, OCD is a very, very misunderstood condition. It is a very difficult condition to live with, and can disrupt an individual’s life significantly.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder: Also known as Body Dysmorphia, this condition is characterised by an individual having intense worries about supposed faults in their appearance. While said faults aren’t normally noticeable to others, they will cause extreme distress to the patient. The individual will commonly go to great measures to try and rectify the apparent problem.

Hoarding Disorder: This is a condition that is closely related to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). It is characterised by an individual struggling to discard possessions, often causing them to excessively hoard items. This often leads to an unhealthy living environment, and often becomes a fire hazard. It also commonly affects an individual’s social life.

Trichotillomania: Trichotillomania is a condition which involves an individual being unable to resist the urge to pull out their hair. An individual may feel an intense urge to pull out hair, and experience a forceful build-up of tension until they complete the action. After pulling out their hair, an individual may feel a sense of relief – though this is only temporary. Overall, this is a very similar condition to OCD, only that it is limited to hair pulling.

Excoriation Disorder: Excoriation Disorder is characterised by a person having an irresistible urge to pick their own skin. This intense urge will be accompanied by an intense feeling of tension until the individual completes the act. A temporary feeling of relief will normally ensue, although this doesn’t last for long, and so the cycle continues. An individual puts themselves at acute risk of health problems due to their skin picking.

Primarily Obsessional OCD (Pure O): This condition is commonly seen as a subtype of OCD. An individual with this condition will have many obsessions, but few subsequent compulsions. Typical symptoms include excessive rumination, intense intrusive thoughts and a fear of possible actions. There are a range of different intrusive thoughts that may be involved.

Due to us considering Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders as being on a spectrum, other conditions, such as some Eating Disorders and Somatic Disorders – may also be considered to be part of the Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum. However, these conditions have been included in alternate areas of our website.

Summary

So while there are many different conditions within the Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum, there are many similarities.

But importantly, treatment is available for all of these conditions. Given the potential impact they can have on an individual – accessing treatment is crucial.

See Also

1. Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders: Everything You Need to Know
2. What Are The Different Types of Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders?
3. What Are The Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders?
4. What Are The Causes of Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders?
5. How are Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders Diagnosed?
6. How Can Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders be Treated?
7. What is the Prognosis for Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders?
8. 10 Tips for Living With Obsessive-Compulsive Spectrum Disorders