- What is Existential OCD?
Existential OCD is a type of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) where people worry too much about deep questions about life, reality, and existence. These thoughts can cause a lot of anxiety because the person feels they must find clear answers to these questions. This leads to a cycle of overthinking and stress, which can make daily life very hard.
People with Existential OCD often have a strong need-to-know anxiety. They feel stuck on questions that others may not think about much. For them, these thoughts are not simple—they are upsetting and feel impossible to ignore.
Common Questions People with Existential OCD Ask:
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Why am I here?
Worrying about the purpose of life and their existence. -
Who is God?
Thinking deeply about God’s existence and nature. -
Who made this world?
Obsessing over how the universe started and who created it. -
What is the purpose of life?
Worrying if life has a meaning or if everything is random. -
Why are people so different?
Overthinking why people act, think, or feel differently. -
Why do objects have certain shapes, and why do I like or dislike them?
Getting stuck on why objects look a certain way and why they feel good or bad about them.
Symptoms of Existential OCD:
- Thinking too much about big life questions.
- Feeling restless or upset because they can’t find answers.
- Overanalyzing how people behave or feel.
- Avoiding topics, books, or movies about life or existence.
- Worrying about shapes or designs of objects and how they feel about them.
- Feeling tired or hopeless because the thoughts won’t stop.
How It Is Linked to BDD:
Some people with Existential OCD also focus too much on how they look (Body Dysmorphic Disorder or BDD). They may worry about why their face, body, or features are different and spend a lot of time thinking about their appearance.
How We Can Help You
At WellMind, we understand how difficult Existential OCD can be. Our special therapies, which do not involve medicine, help you manage these thoughts and reduce your anxiety. By focusing on the root cause of your need-to-know anxiety, we can guide you toward a calm and peaceful life.