OCD SPECTRUM
Contamination OCD
Fear of contamination with compulsive washing or avoidance is a form of OCD that responds well to targeted exposure therapy.
What is Contamination OCD?
Contamination fears involve intense anxiety about germs, dirt, illness or contamination, with compulsive cleaning, washing or avoidance to reduce the anxiety. Like all OCD subtypes, the compulsions provide temporary relief but maintain and worsen the anxiety cycle.
Do you recognise this?
✓Excessive hand-washing or showering
✓Avoiding touching surfaces or objects
✓Compulsive cleaning of home or possessions
✓Fear of infecting others
✓Avoidance of public places
✓Significant time lost to washing rituals
Effective treatments
These approaches are commonly recommended for Contamination OCD.
Frequently asked questions
Isn't cleanliness just good hygiene?
When cleaning rituals take significant time, cause significant distress, and are driven by anxiety rather than genuine risk, it is OCD.
Find the right psychologist for Contamination OCD
Match with a specialist who has experience with Contamination OCD and start within days.