Symmetry OCD

Please note:  The information on this page should not be construed as medical advice, nor should it be used to diagnose or treat any condition. The content on this page is written by recovered OCD sufferers, not by clinicians. Read More

OCD: The Love-Hate Relationship With Symmetry

Do you love symmetry? Do you hate it? Chances are, if you have OCD, your answer is a little bit of both. Symmetry OCD is one of the most common types of OCD, and for those who suffer from it, it can be a real struggle. This blog post will explore the love-hate relationship that people with symmetry OCD can have about symmetry. We will also discuss how people with this type of OCD can manage their symptoms.

What is symmetry OCD?

Symmetry OCD is a type of “just right” OCD where the sufferer has an obsession with symmetry and order. They may spend hours making sure everything in their environment is perfectly symmetrical. This behavior can be anything from arranging books on shelves to making sure picture frames are even. For some people, even the slightest asymmetry can cause severe anxiety.

While symmetry OCD can be extremely debilitating, it also has its upsides. People with this disorder are often very detail-oriented and have a keen eye for aesthetics. They may excel in fields that require precision and attention to detail, such as graphic design or architecture.

What causes Symmetry OCD?

People with symmetry OCD are often very detail-oriented and have a strong need for order and perfection. They may become obsessed with making sure everything in their environment is perfectly symmetrical, or they may be preoccupied with certain body parts being perfectly balanced. Some people with symmetry OCD will go to great lengths to avoid anything that is not perfectly symmetrical. In contrast, others may find themselves constantly rearranging objects or checking their appearance in mirrors to make sure everything is aligned correctly.

While the cause of symmetry OCD is unknown, genetics may play a role. Environmental factors such as stress or traumatic life events may also contribute to the development of this condition. Symmetry OCD can be extremely frustrating and embarrassing for those who suffer, but treatments can help. If you think you may have symmetry OCD, speak to your doctor or mental health professional. With treatment, you can learn to manage your obsessions and live a happy and satisfying life.

The connection between OCD Symmetry and ordering?

People with symmetry OCD often require everything to be symmetrical and orderly. They may become highly distressed if something is out of balance or asymmetrical. This situation can cause problems in their personal lives, as well as in their professional lives.

There’s something about symmetry that makes everything feel ‘just right.’ Maybe it’s the fact that our brains are hardwired for patterns and balance, or maybe it’s just because everything looks nicer when it’s in perfect alignment. Whatever the reason, there’s no denying that there’s a certain appeal to symmetrical things.

OCD and symmetry are closely linked because symmetry is one of the most common ‘ordering’ compulsions. For many OCD sufferers, the need for things to be symmetrical is so strong that it can override all other logical thoughts and impulses. They will move objects around for hours until they’re ‘just right.’ If someone else comes along and messes up all their carefully arranged items, they might get highly frustrated.

Do I have Symmetry OCD?

There are a few key indicators that you may have symmetry OCD. One of them is that you may find yourself constantly arranging objects in your environment so that they’re perfectly symmetrical. Those objects can be anything from aligning the cans in your pantry to making sure all the books on your shelves are facing the same direction. You might also feel an intense need to complete specific actions symmetrically – like brushing your teeth or putting on makeup. Even minor deviations from symmetry can feel extremely upsetting and trigger anxiety or distress.

Symptoms of symmetry OCD can range from mild to severe and can significantly interfere with everyday life. If you’re not sure whether you have symmetry OCD, consider taking this quick symmetry OCD test:

Do you spend a lot of time arranging objects in your environment so that they’re perfectly symmetrical?

Do you feel an intense need to complete specific actions in a symmetrical way, such as brushing your teeth or putting on makeup?

Do you avoid activities or situations that might disrupt symmetry, such as walking on cracks in the sidewalk?

Do you have difficulty completing tasks unless everything is symmetrical?

Do you find yourself getting upset or anxious if objects in your environment are not symmetrical?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you might have symmetry OCD.

How to cure Symmetry OCD?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder includes intrusive thoughts that lead to repetitive behaviors. It can also manifest itself in a need for things to be symmetrical. If something is even slightly off, it can highly bother those who suffer from it.

It can be a problem when trying to cure symmetry OCD. The very act of trying to fix things can make them worse. It’s a vicious cycle from which it is hard to break free. But there are ways to manage the disorder and live a balanced life. Below are some valuable tips on how to help you overcome symmetry OCD:

 · Try not to focus on symmetry. It will be less of a distraction if you train your mind to ignore symmetry. Also, with time you can try to expose yourself to symmetrical objects or situations in a gradual and controlled manner.

 · Distract yourself by doing other activities. It will be hard to break free from the OCD cycle if you constantly focus on symmetry. But if you can find something else to focus on, it will help take your mind off things.

 · Talk to someone about it. It can be beneficial to talk to someone who understands what you’re going through. A therapist or support group can be an excellent resource for finding ways to manage OCD symptoms.

 · Challenge your thoughts. When those intrusive thoughts start swirling around in your head, challenge them. Is there a reason to be symmetrical? Probably not.

 · Create a relaxation routine. This routine can help calm your mind and ease the anxiety of OCD. Try deep breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation.

Final thoughts about Symmetry OCD

Managing OCD is hard work, but you can find ways to cope that work for you with patience and perseverance. Don’t let OCD control your life – take back control and start living your best life.

I would love to hear any comments or questions you have about symmetry OCD. Please feel free to share them in the comments section below.

Notable Replies

  1. Really good advice from the article. I wonder if someone can share what relaxation techniques or another type of distraction help you with symmetry OCD? Thank you in advance!

  2. What works best with symmetry OCD is rearranging 1-2 items per day. The best way is to start with two items and stick with that number for a couple of days. Then, reduce it to one item per day.

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