Calmly Coping

OCD vs Anxiety: How to Finally Tell the Difference

Sep 24, 2025
Discover the fascinating world of OCD and how it differs from anxiety and perfectionism. Learn about the spectrum of OCD, intrusive thoughts, and the vital role of compulsions. Explore the mistaken overlaps between these conditions and why traditional anxiety techniques might backfire. Get insights on effective treatments like Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), complete with practical advice for managing everyday behaviors. Finally, understand that intrusive thoughts are a common human experience, and how to cope with them.
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INSIGHT

Core Definition Of OCD

  • OCD consists of obsessions (intrusive thoughts) and compulsions (behaviors or mental acts to reduce distress).
  • Compulsions can be overt or covert and both maintain the OCD cycle.
INSIGHT

Compulsions Can Be Irrational Or Hidden

  • Compulsions don't need to be rationally connected to the fear and can be completely unrelated rituals.
  • Mental rituals like replaying conversations or repeating phrases are real compulsions that are often missed.
ADVICE

Get Professional Evaluation If Symptoms Interfere

  • Seek a licensed mental health professional trained in OCD when obsessions and compulsions cause major distress or take over your day.
  • A diagnosis is more likely when symptoms take over time or interfere with work or relationships.
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