What is Harm OCD?

Harm OCD is a type of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) where a person experiences intrusive thoughts, images, or urges related to harming themselves or others. These thoughts are unwanted and go against the person’s true values and nature, causing immense distress and anxiety.

Symptoms of Harm OCD

• Intrusive thoughts or fears of causing harm unintentionally or intentionally.
• Avoiding certain situations, people, or objects to prevent harm.
• Constant guilt or fear of being a dangerous person.
• Distress from intrusive thoughts despite having no desire to act on them.

Common Obsessions in Harm OCD

• Fear of accidentally hurting someone while driving, cooking, or using sharp objects.
• Worrying about losing control and acting violently.
• Thoughts about harming loved ones, children, or pets.
• Fearing you might harm yourself, even without any intent or desire to do so.
• Concerns about causing harm indirectly, such as spreading illness or being negligent.

Common Compulsions in Harm OCD

• Avoidance: Staying away from sharp objects, certain people, or situations that trigger thoughts.
• Reassurance-seeking: Asking loved ones if they believe you are safe or harmless.
• Checking: Frequently checking to ensure you haven’t harmed someone or something.
• Mental reviewing: Replaying events in your mind to ensure nothing harmful occurred.
• Confessing: Admitting to others about your intrusive thoughts, even if no harm was done.
• Neutralizing thoughts: Trying to replace "bad" thoughts with "good" ones or engaging in rituals to “cancel out” harm.

Behaviors in Harm OCD

• Avoiding interactions with people, especially children or vulnerable individuals.
• Refusing to use potentially “dangerous” items like knives, scissors, or chemicals.
• Overly monitoring your actions, such as walking cautiously to avoid stepping on insects.
• Excessive prayer or rituals to "prevent" harm.
• Constantly searching online for reassurance about intrusive thoughts.

Impact on Daily Life

Harm OCD can be debilitating, affecting relationships, work, and daily activities. It creates a cycle where intrusive thoughts lead to compulsions, which only provide temporary relief, keeping the OCD cycle going.