Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) DSM-5 Quiz

Obsessive-Compulsive Self-Check

Why this self-check? Use this educational tool to notice patterns of obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours you’ve experienced in the past two weeks.

How to answer – choose the option that matches how often it applied:

  • 0 Never: Not at all in the last 2 weeks
  • 1 Sometimes: A few isolated moments
  • 2 Often: Several times a day or most days
  • 3 Almost Always: So frequent or intense it’s hard to ignore

Crisis disclaimer: This quiz cannot diagnose or treat. If you feel unsafe with your thoughts or actions, call 988 (US), 111 (UK), or your local emergency number.

Intrusive Thoughts & Images
Unwanted thoughts about dirt or germs pop into my mind.
I picture something terrible happening to a loved one.
I feel upset if objects aren’t perfectly even or “just right.”
I get shocking or “forbidden” images I don’t want.
Attempts to Control the Thoughts
I try hard to push certain thoughts away.
I ask others for reassurance to make the bad thought go away.
Visible Compulsive Actions
I wash or sanitize again and again to feel safe.
I check locks, appliances, or tasks over and over.
I arrange items until they look exactly right.
I count things or step patterns in a special way.
Hidden / Mental Rituals
I silently repeat words or prayers to cancel out a thought.
I mentally replay events to be sure nothing bad happened.
Impact on Daily Life
These thoughts or actions take more than an hour of my day.
I avoid places or people because of my fears or rituals.
I feel strong distress when I can’t complete a ritual.
OCD-type worries interfere with school, work, or relationships.
Awareness of Excessiveness
Part of me realizes my fears or rituals are over the top.
Even knowing that, I still feel driven to do them.
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