OCD, or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, is a mental disorder characterized by intrusive thoughts, recurring behaviors, or rituals, and feelings of distress or anxiety. People with OCD often have a fear of anything that could trigger their obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Common OCD fears include fear of contamination, fear of making mistakes, fear of harm to loved ones, fear of losing control, fear of being judged by others, and fear of being embarrassed. In some cases, OCD can cause a fear of the unknown.
Fear of Contamination
People with OCD may have an irrational fear of germs, dirt, or other contaminants. This fear can lead to compulsions such as excessive handwashing or avoiding certain things that may be contaminated. This fear can lead to physical symptoms such as dry or cracked skin from over-washing, or physical discomfort from avoiding certain activities or environments.
Fear of Making Mistakes
People with OCD may have an irrational fear of making mistakes or doing something wrong. This fear can lead to compulsions such as checking things repeatedly or asking someone’s opinion multiple times. This fear can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches and muscle tension from overthinking.
Fear of Harm to Loved Ones
People with OCD may have an irrational fear of something bad happening to their loved ones. This fear can lead to compulsions such as checking on them repeatedly or avoiding certain activities that could potentially put them in danger. This fear can lead to physical symptoms such as insomnia and digestive issues from worrying.
Fear of Losing Control
People with OCD may have an irrational fear of losing control. This fear can lead to compulsions such as counting or organizing things excessively or avoiding certain activities that could lead to a loss of control. This fear can lead to physical symptoms such as fatigue or difficulty concentrating from overthinking.
Fear of Being Judged by Others
People with OCD may have an irrational fear of being judged by others. This fear can lead to compulsions such as seeking approval or avoiding certain activities or people. This fear can lead to physical symptoms such as difficulty sleeping or a weakened immune system from worrying.
Fear of the Unknown
Some people with OCD may have an irrational fear of the unknown. This fear can lead to compulsions such as avoiding certain situations or seeking excessive reassurance about things that may happen in the future. This fear can lead to physical symptoms such as headaches or muscle tension from overthinking.