How Common is OCD?
By : Katherine Pica LCSW
There are many acronyms in today’s world, especially when it comes to the medical field. You’ve probably heard of OCD in passing before. You may even be aware of what OCD stands for: Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD can cause an individual to have unwanted or intrusive thoughts or obsessions. These obsessions can cause them to perform compulsions as a way to cope with the uncertainty that the obsessions are causing them.
Even if you or a loved one has never been directly affected by OCD, you’re aware of the disorder. You may not experience it directly, but you’re aware of the disorder and some of the impact it can have on an individual. Let’s learn more about how common OCD actually is.
Is OCD Common?
OCD is actually a relatively common mental health issue. It’s estimated that one out of every one hundred people across the United States suffers from OCD. That’s around two to three million people just in the United States. In a study conducted in 2018, OCD fell fourth on the list of most common mental health illnesses, falling behind depression, substance abuse, and social anxiety. . According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 2.3% of adults in the U.S. will experience OCD at some point in their lives. That means millions of people are living with OCD—often silently—struggling with intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors that can interfere with daily life.
OCD treatment for kids and teens
OCD in children and teens is also more common than most people realize. Studies show that around 1 in 200 children and adolescents are affected by OCD. That’s about the same number of kids who have diabetes. OCD often begins in childhood or adolescence, and early symptoms can sometimes be overlooked or mistaken for anxiety, perfectionism, or behavioral issues. With the right support and early intervention, children with OCD can learn to manage their symptoms and thrive.
Anyone and everyone could have OCD. Age, race, gender, or lifestyle is completely irrelevant. That being said, OCD is often first diagnosed in middle school or late teenagers. And despite the fact that both women and men can show signs of OCD, it’s more often found in women compared to men.
What are the Common Types of OCD?
There isn’t just one type of OCD. There are various subtypes. Let’s dive into some of the most common subtypes of OCD:
Contamination OCD
Contamination OCD is a very common form of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. This subtype of OCD can cause an individual to repeatedly wash their hands or clean their homes in order to get rid of any dirt, germs, or illnesses.
Harm OCD
Another common form of OCD is Harm OCD. Harm OCD is based around the obsessions that an individual will harm their own self or others if they don’t perform their compulsions. Intrusive thoughts may lead an individual to believe things that didn’t happen, like causing a car accident or starting a fire.
Symmetry and Order
Lastly is symmetry and order OCD. This type of OCD is when an individual feels an intense need to arrange or organize objects until they feel “right.” This could mean arranging items by size, category, or color.
Relationship OCD (ROCD)
Obsessions around whether you’re in the “right” relationship, if you love your partner enough, or if they’re truly “the one.” This can lead to constant analysis and reassurance-seeking.Is OCD More Common in Today’s World?
In today’s world, people can get information right from their fingertips. If you have a question, you can find the answer within minutes or even seconds by researching on your phone or asking Siri or Google. This can be a blessing and a curse. The digital world makes it easier to seek the answers to your questions within seconds. However figuring out whether or not we are in the right relationship is quite difficult as no relationship is perfect!
Sexual Orientation OCD (SO-OCD)
This subtype of OCD involves distressing doubts about one’s sexual orientation, even when there’s no previous reason to question it. These thoughts are fear-based, not desire-based, and can cause a lot of confusion and shame. When struggling with SO-OCD you may constantly analyze their feelings, mentally “test” themselves, avoid people of the same or opposite gender, or seek reassurance that their orientation hasn’t changed.
Religious or Scrupulosity OCD
Obsessions around morality, sin, or offending a higher power. Compulsions may include excessive praying, confessing, or seeking reassurance about being a “good” person. This form of OCD focuses on fears around morality, sin, or being a “bad” person. Someone with scrupulosity may worry they’ve offended their faith, done something unforgivable, or haven’t followed religious practices correctly. This can lead to excessive praying, confessing, or avoiding religious activities altogether due to fear of doing them “wrong.”
Health Anxiety OCD
This involves obsessive fears about physical symptoms and the belief that one has—or will develop—a serious illness. People may fixate on bodily sensations, spend hours Googling symptoms, and seek reassurance from doctors or loved ones, even when tests have ruled out any actual medical condition. Despite this, the anxiety continues to return.
OCD treatment near me
If you’re struggling with OCD, it may feel extremely isolating and lonely. Therapy is a great option for individuals struggling with OCD. There isn’t just one form of therapy that works for someone struggling with OCD. Exposure Response Prevention (ERP), is the best treatment option. We’re here to help you take back control of your life again. Interested in learning more? Reach out to us today to set up a consultation.
How to get Ocd therapy - San Diego, CA
At Resilience Counseling, we specialize in treating OCD using evidence-based approaches like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). We work with kids, teens, and adults to help them better understand their OCD and take steps toward meaningful change. No matter what type of OCD you're facing, there is hope for healing. With the right support and tools, you can learn to manage intrusive thoughts, reduce compulsions, and reclaim your life. You don’t have to do it alone—we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way. Reach out today to get started.
About the author: Katherine Pica OCD Therapist - San Diego, CA
Katherine Pica - Clinical Director and Owner of Resilience Counseling. She has been practicing since 2007 for over 18 years! Trained in ERP for OCD and EMDR for Trauma. Katherine brings years of experience to her team! We are available in San Diego, CA for session in person and all over California for virtual therapy.
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Disclaimer : The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional and or medical advice, diagnosis, and or treatment. It is important to always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a mental health and/or medical condition. Never disregard any professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the Resilience Counseling website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 or local emergency number immediately.
