OCD Test: Do I Have OCD? Signs, Symptoms & Self-Assessment

We all have moments where we double-check the lock, worry about a stray germ, or feel a sudden need to straighten a picture frame. These are normal human behaviors. But for some of us, these moments don't just pass—they loop. They become a "broken record" in the mind, demanding attention and creating a sense of urgency that is hard to ignore.

This OCD Test is designed to help you distinguish between high standards, everyday worries, and the specific patterns associated with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). If you have ever felt exhausted by the need to check, clean, or neutralize "bad" thoughts, this assessment offers a safe, private space to explore those feelings and understand the "why" behind your mental friction.

How can this OCD Test help you?

This assessment acts as a mirror for your internal experiences, helping you move from confusion to understanding.

• Identify Hidden Patterns: Uncover whether your habits are driven by preference or a deeper "protection loop."
• Validate Your Experience: See that your intrusive thoughts or rituals are well-documented psychological phenomena, not character flaws.
• Measure Impact: Gauge how much "mental bandwidth" these symptoms are currently taking from your daily life.
• Find Direction: Receive tailored suggestions on how to regain your time and mental energy.

What is the OCD Test about?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often misunderstood as simply "liking things clean." In reality, it is a cycle of Obsessions (unwanted, distressing thoughts) and Compulsions (actions performed to reduce the anxiety caused by those thoughts).

This test explores questions you might be asking yourself in the quiet moments of the day:

• "Why can't I stop thinking about this one bad image?"
• "Why do I feel responsible for preventing disasters that others don't worry about?"
• "Why does my anxiety only go away if I tap this object three times?"
• "Am I the only one who feels this intense need for symmetry?"

How is this test designed?

Theory and measurement foundations

This assessment is grounded in the "Four-Dimension Model" of OCD, widely used by clinical researchers and organizations like the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF). Unlike older tools that focus only on washing or checking, this model captures the full spectrum of symptoms, including "Pure O" (mental rituals).

Which dimensions does this test look at?

We measure your responses across four scientifically validated dimensions:

• Contamination & Cleansing: The intense distress triggered by germs, dirt, or "emotional contamination," leading to washing or avoidance.
• Responsibility & Checking: The fear of causing harm through negligence, resulting in repetitive checking of locks, stoves, or emails.
• Symmetry & Order: The need for objects or actions to feel "just right," aligned, or balanced to avoid a sense of incompleteness.
• Intrusive Thoughts & Mental Rituals: Unwanted, often taboo thoughts that are neutralized by silent prayers, counting, or mental reviewing.

How does this test work in practice?

Number of items and approximate time

The test consists of 20 questions and typically takes 7 minutes to complete.

How to answer

You will rate each statement on a scale from 1 (Never) to 7 (Constantly).

Tip: Answer based on your average week. If you have "good days" and "bad days," try to aim for the middle ground that reflects your typical experience.

How do we calculate your results?

We calculate a cumulative score based on the frequency and distress level of your symptoms. This score is then mapped to standard severity bands used in clinical screening tools.

Who is this test for?

This test is especially helpful if you:

• Feel like your brain has a "sticky" gear that gets caught on specific worries.
• Lose significant time (more than 1 hour a day) to rituals or repetitive thoughts.
• Seek reassurance from others frequently ("Are you sure I didn't hurt anyone?").
• Want to understand if your perfectionism has crossed into compulsive territory.

Please consider seeking professional help instead if:

• You are currently in a crisis or having thoughts of self-harm.
• Your symptoms are so severe that you cannot function (e.g., unable to leave the house).
• Note: This tool is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for a clinical diagnosis.

What will you see in your results? (Preview)

We don't just give you a number; we provide a narrative that helps you frame your experience. Your report will classify your symptoms into one of four standard categories:

1. Minimal / Subclinical
Your mind operates with a flexible flow. You may have occasional worries or preferences for order, but they do not disrupt your life or cause significant distress.

2. Mild Symptoms
You have a conscientious mind that occasionally gets "stuck." You function well, but specific triggers (like leaving the house or a messy desk) may cause friction or friction-based habits.

3. Moderate Symptoms
Your brain's alarm system is sensitive. You likely spend noticeable time fighting intrusive thoughts or performing rituals, and you may feel "exhausted vigilance" trying to prevent mistakes or harm.

4. Severe Symptoms
You are currently caught in a high-intensity protection loop. Obsessions and compulsions likely dominate your daily routine, and professional support is strongly recommended to help you reclaim your time.

Also included in every result:

• Strengths: The positive traits often associated with your pattern (e.g., deep empathy, high responsibility).
• Common Pitfalls: The specific "traps" your mind sets for you.
• Action Plan: Small, immediate steps you can take today to lower the volume of the anxiety.

What can you do with your results?

Treat the result as a mirror, not a verdict

A high score does not mean you are "broken." It simply means your brain is over-functioning in its attempt to keep you safe or comfortable. Seeing this pattern clearly is the first step toward changing it.

Small actions and longer-term directions

Whether your score is Mild or Severe, we provide actionable advice—from "delay tactics" to break the ritual loop, to resources for finding Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, the gold standard for OCD treatment.

References & further reading

• International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) - The leading global organization for OCD resources, support groups, and therapist directories.
• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder - Comprehensive scientific overview of symptoms and treatments.
• Mayo Clinic: OCD Symptoms & Causes - Trusted medical information on the diagnosis and management of OCD.
• Psychology Today: Find an OCD Therapist - A searchable directory to find licensed professionals specializing in OCD near you.

Disclaimer

This OCD Test is a self-assessment tool designed for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a diagnostic tool and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

The results provided by this test are based on your responses and general psychological models but cannot capture the complexity of an individual's mental health. High scores on this test do not necessarily mean you have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.

If you are experiencing severe anxiety, distress, or thoughts of self-harm, please contact a licensed mental health professional or emergency services immediately.