Harm OCD by Jenn Lowe, M.A., LCMHC, RPT

Jun 29
Harm OCD

Harm OCD, or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder centered around intrusive thoughts related to harm, involves obsessive thoughts about causing harm to oneself or others despite lacking any intent or desire to do so. These obsessions can be distressing and debilitating for those experiencing them.

Common Obsessions in Harm OCD:

  • Fear of causing pain or harm to others accidentally
  • Violent or aggressive thoughts
  • Fear of being responsible for the pain someone else experiences.
  • Nightmares of suicide or self-harm
  • Fear of losing control

Common Compulsions with this subtype:

  • Confessing thoughts to others
  • Prayers and rituals
  • Adding extra locks
  • Avoiding using sharp knives
  • Mental reviewing
  • Turning the car around to go check to make sure you didn't hit someone

Consequences of this subtype:

  • Extra time is taken for checking.
  • Avoidance and being unable to visit certain places, visit family members, or watch certain movies.
  • Not having access to everyday conveniences such as knives, extension cords, etc.
  • Mental reviewing
  • Can interfere with hobbies a person enjoyed previously.

There's a way to quiet the noise in your head. I'm trained in Exposure with Response Prevention, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. I offer a free 10-minute phone consultation for women in Michigan or North Carolina. You can come to in-person sessions if you live close to Jackson, Michigan. Oh and I'm in network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, and can also accept private pay.