The Top 6 Emotions of OCD

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An important facet of OCD that can be a barrier to effective diagnosis and treatment is the oversimplification of the emotional reality of OCD sufferers.

While anxiety is the primary emotion associated with OCD, it's important to understand that anxiety is not the only emotion central to the experience of OCD sufferers.

According to OCD therapist, Dr. Steven Phillipson, who also struggles with OCD himself, the top six emotions of OCD include:

1. anxiety
2. guilt
3. shame
4. depression
5. anger
6. disgust

For the purposes of correct diagnosis and effective treatment, it’s vital to understand how emotionally complex OCD can be, and the different ways OCD can present. OCD is beyond just occasional worrying or feeling nervous.

It involves a cascade of complex emotions that can feel overwhelming without the proper understanding and tools. Knowing and acknowledging the different emotions associated with OCD can help both OCD sufferers and their loved ones identify when OCD is being activated and hence, when and how to respond appropriately.

(You can learn more about the 6 emotion at OCD Stories Podcast, Episode #359)