Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a complex mental health condition characterized by intrusive thoughts, obsessions, and repetitive behaviors or compulsions. While you might be familiar with the more common manifestations of OCD such as excessive hand-washing or checking locks, there are lesser-known forms of this disorder that often go unrecognized. These rare forms of OCD can significantly impact an individual’s daily life, yet they remain underdiagnosed and misunderstood by the general public.
4 Rare Forms of OCD
Contrary to popular belief, the rare forms of OCD are not as uncommon as one might think. According to the latest research, it is estimated that approximately 20-30% of individuals with OCD experience one or more of the rare forms of the disorder.
Obsessive-Compulsive Hoarding Disorder
Obsessive-Compulsive Hoarding Disorder (OCHD) is a rare subtype of OCD characterized by an overwhelming urge to acquire and hoard a vast array of objects, often to the point of significant clutter and impairment in daily functioning. Individuals with OCHD may feel a deep emotional attachment to their possessions, leading to extreme difficulty in parting with them, even when the items hold little to no practical value.
Purely Obsessional OCD
Purely Obsessional OCD, also known as Pure-O, is a subtype of the disorder characterized by the presence of intrusive thoughts, mental compulsions, and a lack of overt physical compulsions. The internal nature of the compulsions in Pure-O can make it particularly challenging to recognize and diagnose, as the individual’s struggles may not be as readily apparent to others. This subtype of OCD can lead to significant distress, social withdrawal, and impairment in daily functioning.
Symmetry and Orderliness OCD
Symmetry and Orderliness OCD is a rare form of the disorder characterized by an overwhelming need for order, balance, and precision in one’s environment. Individuals with this subtype may engage in compulsive behaviors, such as arranging and rearranging objects, to achieve a sense of symmetry or “just right” feeling. The pursuit of perfectionism and the need for order can become all-consuming, negatively affecting work, relationships, and personal care. Individuals may also experience heightened anxiety and distress when their environment is not in the desired state of order
Somatic OCD
Somatic OCD involves a hyperfixation or awareness of the types of bodily functions that run on autopilot like breathing, blinking, chewing, and swallowing. Individuals with this rare form of OCD often find it difficult to focus on other things which can cause severe disruptions in their daily life.
Identifying OCD Symptoms
The impact of rare forms of OCD on an individual’s daily life can be extremely disruptive and in many cases, debilitating. Sadly, accurately diagnosing rare forms of OCD can be challenging as these subtypes often present with atypical symptoms that may not fit the traditional diagnostic OCD criteria.
One of the primary challenges in diagnosing rare forms of OCD is the lack of awareness and understanding among healthcare professionals, including mental health practitioners. Many clinicians may not be familiar with the nuances of these lesser-known subtypes, leading to misdiagnosis or delayed recognition of the condition.
Rare OCD subtypes may also involve taboo topics that can make an individual afflicted with this disorder reluctant to ask for help. Feelings of shame, embarrassment, or a lack of understanding about their condition can further complicate the diagnostic process and delay access to appropriate treatment.
Comprehensive assessments, including detailed interviews, standardized diagnostic measures, and collateral information from family members or caregivers, can be crucial in accurately identifying these lesser-known subtypes.
OCD Treatment Options
Obsessive compulsive disorder and its subtypes — both rare and common– are usually treatable with a combination of therapy and medication. Less severe cases of OCD may be suitable for therapy-only treatment, while treatment of severe OCD will usually require both methods.
Medications for OCD
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or other medications with anti-anxiety or antidepressant qualities are used to manage the symptoms of rare forms of OCD. Medication can help reduce the intensity of obsessions and compulsions, allowing individuals to be more engaged in therapy.
Therapy for OCD Treatment
Traditionally, OCD was treated with psychotherapy (a.k.a. Talk therapy). However, this has largely been replaced by Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) which is considered the gold standard in the treatment of OCD, including its rare forms. This therapy modality helps individuals confront their fears and obsessions in a gradual and controlled manner, while learning to resist the urge to engage in compulsive behaviors.
Some rare types of OCD typically involve interventions; usually when a person refuses to acknowledge that they have an obsessive-compulsive disorder. In other instances, a multidisciplinary team including mental health professionals, occupational therapists, and social workers, may work together to implement harm reduction strategies.
If you or a loved one is burdened with intrusive thoughts or behaviors, contact us today to learn about treatment options for OCD and regain control of your life.
Michaela Welk, LMHC
Bunny Berman
Tank
Richard E. LoSardo, MD
Christopher Payne
Bernard Benjamin
Tiffany Bellino