Quiz: Do I have OCD?

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OCD is a distressing mental health condition that is often misrepresented or misunderstood. People who insist on having a clean house may joke that they have 'a bit of OCD'; however, the condition itself can be extremely distressing and debilitating for sufferers and has a wide variety of symptoms.

In fact, whilst we may see common symptoms such as repeated handwashing or obsessive cleaning as evidence of OCD, it's possible to have the condition and yet have no outward sign of it. "Some people have OCD but even their partner or parents won't see it," explains Peter Klein, Cognitive Behavioural Therapist from Counselling Directory. "They can be experiencing a battle in their mind, against unwanted thoughts or images."

Who is this quiz for?

If you are experiencing repetitive, unwanted thoughts, or feel compelled to carry out certain behaviours, such as checking for perceived danger or organising items in a set way, it may be that you are suffering from OCD. This quiz should help you understand more about the condition and establish whether you are exhibiting symptoms.

Who is at risk?

"1-3 % of the population have OCD," explains Klein. "And the number is more like 10% if you include related disorders such as body dysmorphia or eating disorders, which bear some of the same traits."

OCD can be brought on or exacerbated by stress, and whilst some people may have a genetic predisposition to such a condition, anyone may develop a mental health problem at any time.

What does the test consist of?

The test consists of eight questions which relate to common OCD symptoms. The first four questions relate to thought symptoms; the second four are concerned with compulsions you might be experiencing. The questions are designed to analyse the likelihood of you having the condition.

Each answer also contains advice relating to that particular symptom, which you may find helpful both in terms of understanding how you are feeling and whether your symptoms may relate to OCD or another disorder.

How accurate is it?

This test should not be treated as a diagnosis. However, it could be a useful tool if you are experiencing symptoms and want to understand more about the way you are feeling. It should help you to understand whether your symptoms may be related to OCD.

However, if you are concerned about your mental health in any way, you should seek specialist advice, from your GP, your local A&E department or by contacting the Samaritans.

How is OCD treated?

If you are diagnosed with OCD by a properly trained professional, there is hope of recovery and better management with the right treatment. Cognitive behavioural therapy, with or without antidepressants, has been shown to be extremely effective. So don't suffer in silence!