Symmetry and Ordering OCD Explained
Books are arranged in alphabetical order on shelves.
Pencils are positioned on desks that are equally distanced apart from one another.
Clothing in a closet is categorized by the ROY G BIV color system.
These are all signs of a common type of obsessive-compulsive disorder called symmetry and ordering OCD. Let’s learn more.
What Is Symmetry and Ordering OCD?
Symmetry and ordering OCD is a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder that causes people to obsess over the position or arrangement of certain objects. If someone who has symmetry and ordering OCD comes across an object that is out of place or isn’t in a proper alignment, it could cause that individual to experience anxiety.
The Cause
There isn’t one specific cause of symmetry and ordering OCD. These are some of the most common causes or risk factors associated with this specific form of OCD:
- Age: When OCD is discovered at an early age, it is more common to develop symmetry and ordering obsessions.
- Biology: A person’s brain structure, along with the levels of certain neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, are believed to contribute to someone developing symmetry and ordering OCD.
- Comorbidity: Symmetry and ordering OCD are often experienced along with another condition or disorder.
- Environment: A person’s environment, how they were raised, or their interactions with family and friends can contribute to symmetry and ordering OCD.
- Genetics: If someone in your family has a history of OCD, you’re more likely to be at risk of developing OCD yourself.
The Signs and Symptoms
Similar to other forms of OCD, symmetry and ordering OCD has common obsessions and compulsions. These are some of the most common signs and symptoms of symmetry and ordering OCD:
Obsessions
- Anxiety due to asymmetry
- Extreme balance with all things (accidentally hitting your right hand and needing to hit the left to feel even, equal pressure on each foot when walking, etc.)
- Fear that something bad will happen if something is out of order
- Need for certain things to look and feel symmetrical or balanced (for example: books on a shelf, writing utensils on a desk, pillows on a couch)
Compulsions
- Arranging items so that everything has a place and is in the correct order (clothes in a closet, shoes on a rack, kitchen pantry items)
- Writing in a notebook so that everything is uniform in size, shape, and length on a line
- Tracing the edges of figures and shapes
- Typing the same amount of words so the number is even on every line
Treatment Options
You’re not alone if you’re struggling with symmetry and ordering OCD or another form of OCD. Here are a few of the different ways that you can cope, better manage your signs and symptoms, and get the support you need and deserve.
Educate Yourself
One of the best ways to get ahead of symmetry and ordering OCD is to take the time to learn more about it. Research and educate yourself on the cause, the signs and symptoms, and coping mechanisms.
Keep Track of Your Signs and Symptoms
Try to make a list of the signs and symptoms that you’re experiencing. This helps you keep track of what you’re experiencing. But you can also expand on how these signs and symptoms make you feel. Having this information will be not only beneficial to you but also to a therapist if you decide to seek additional support.
Seek Additional Support
If you’re experiencing some of the obsessions, compulsions, or other signs and symptoms of symmetry and ordering OCD, you’re not alone. OCD is a lot more common than you may think. The right support can help you get back on the right path again to reducing that anxiety that you’re experiencing. Reach out today to set up a consultation.