The Obsession:
Fearful thoughts or images in your mind about being contaminated by dangerous substances, eg.germs, dirt, AIDS.
The Compulsion:
Check body for signs of contamination.
Wash/disinfect frequesntly
Avoid going to places or touching objects that you fear may contaminate you.
The Obsession:
Frightening thoughts/images that some serious harmful events will occur becaue of your carelessness. For example, a gas explosion because the cooker is left on, that the house will be buguled because of unlocked doors or windows or that you may have knoced someone over in your car.
The Compulsion:
Check feard situations/appliances or journey route many times
Avoid being the last person to leave the house
avoid responsibility
Seek reasurrance regualry from another person that everthing is alright
The Obsession:
Pictures or words in your head that suggest you will harm others. Especially those you care about most and would never harm. For example that you might strangle your own child, or stab your partner
The Compulsion:
Avoid situations which you feel will put you at risk of harming, eg. hide kichen knifes
Think something to yourself to 'put right' the thoughts - these are called neutralising thoughts
The Obsession:
Pictures come into your head of your loved ones dead
The Compulsion:
Think neutralising thoughts to counteract the images
Carry out a tast that will neutralise the thought, eg. counting or saying a special word or sentense
The Obsession:
Things in your life are not in the correct order or arent symmetrical enough, eg. ornaments are out of place and this makes you feel distressed
The Compulsion:
You put things right or make them symmetrical untill they feel 'just right'
Fearful, Guilty, Agitated, Anxious, Depressed, Disgusted, Tense
We have carried out the compulsive behaviour or thoughts?
Relieved, Cleansed, Calm, Relaxed, Less anxious, Dissapointed