If you’ve ever wondered, “Do I have OCD?” you’re not alone. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common but very misunderstood condition, and the signs aren’t always what you’d expect.
This quick quiz can help you recognize whether your thoughts and behaviors may be signs of OCD.
Disclaimer: This quiz is not a diagnosis, but it can help you better understand your symptoms and determine the next steps.
OCD quiz: How to know if you might have OCD
This quiz screens for patterns of intrusive thoughts and compulsions that are commonly seen in people with OCD. It also includes questions related to different subtypes of OCD, including:
- Contamination and cleaning
- Checking and harm-related fears
- “Taboo” thoughts
- Ordering and “just right” compulsions
What kind of OCD do I have?
OCD manifests differently in each person. Some people worry about germs or getting sick. Others experience distressing thoughts about harming others or acting inappropriately—even if they’d never actually do so. Understanding your OCD subtype can help you find the most effective treatment.
Here are some of the most common OCD subtypes:
Contamination OCD
- Fear of germs, illness, or contamination
- Common compulsions: Excessive washing or cleaning
Harm OCD
- Fear of causing harm to yourself or others
- Common compulsions: Repeated checking or avoiding people or situations
Taboo or intrusive thoughts
- Unwanted, disturbing thoughts—often about sex, violence, or morality
- Compulsions may be mental, like reviewing or neutralizing the thought
Symmetry and “just right” OCD
- Intense discomfort when things aren’t “even,” aligned, or perfect
- Common compulsions: Arranging, repeating, or counting
You may notice that some symptoms fall into more than one subtype. That’s common, as OCD isn’t always neatly organized.
Why this quiz matters
Many people live with OCD for years without realizing it. You might just think you’re overthinking, perfectionistic, or “being careful.” But when these thoughts become distressing and hard to ignore—and when you start engaging in repetitive behaviors to cope—it could be OCD.
If your thoughts feel:
- Distressing
- Time-consuming
- Difficult to control
- Out of sync with your values
…it’s worth reaching out for professional help, preferably to an OCD specialist.
What happens after the quiz?
If your results suggest that you might have OCD, the next best step is to talk to a mental health provider with specialized training in OCD. From there, they can further explain your experience and create a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve lasting relief from your symptoms.
Find the right OCD therapist for you
All our therapists are licensed and trained in exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), the gold standard treatment for OCD.
Frequently asked questions
Can an online quiz really tell me if I have OCD?
Not definitely, but it can help you recognize patterns in your thinking and behavior that align with OCD symptoms, and guide you toward the next steps.
Can I have more than one kind of OCD?
Yes. OCD symptoms often span multiple themes or subtypes, and they may shift over time.
What if I have disturbing thoughts but no visible compulsions?
You might be experiencing pure O or mental compulsions. These are just as real—and treatable—as more obvious rituals.
Bottom line
If you’ve been stuck in a cycle of distressing thoughts and compulsive behaviors, you’re not alone, and help is available. This quiz is a good starting point, but it’s not a diagnosis. The best way to know for sure is to speak with a trained OCD specialist.
