Mental Compulsions

Mental compulsions are very common amongst individuals suffering with OCD. Unlike physical compulsions, such as washing hands repeatedly or checking locks, mental compulsions involve engaging in specific mental acts or rituals to reduce anxiety or prevent perceived threat, harm or discomfort.

Thera are several different types of mental compulsions, see a limited list of them below:

  • Counting or Repeating Words: mentally counting to a certain number or repeating certain words or phrases

  • Praying or Mental Rituals: mental prayers or rituals

  • Reviewing or Reassuring Thoughts: mentally reviewing events or situations to ensure that nothing harmful occurred or mentally reassuring oneself that everything is okay

  • Neutralising Thoughts: in an attempt to counteract or neutralise obsessive thoughts with "good" thoughts or mental images

  • Mental Checking: mentally reviewing details to ensure that nothing bad will happen or that one hasn't made a mistake

  • Suppression or Avoidance of "Bad" Thoughts”: trying to push away or suppress unwanted thoughts or images

These mental rituals are just as time-consuming and distressing as physical compulsions. People with OCD often engage in these behaviors because they believe they can prevent harm, reduce anxiety, or undo something bad they fear might happen. However, these compulsions typically provide only temporary relief and can actually reinforce the cycle of obsessions and compulsions.

Treatment for mental compulsions often involves cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), particularly exposure and response prevention (ERP). ERP helps individuals gradually confront their fears and obsessions without engaging in compulsive behaviors, thereby breaking the cycle of OCD. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may also be used in conjunction with therapy to manage symptoms.

Understanding mental compulsions is crucial in addressing OCD and related disorders effectively, as it helps individuals recognize these behaviors and work towards managing them in a healthier way.