OCD
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is frequently misunderstood and often under-recognized, particularly in faith communities. Many people with OCD suffer in silence, believing their intrusive thoughts are sinful or reflect their true character. At My Sakinah, we want to be clear: intrusive thoughts are a symptom of OCD — not a reflection of your faith, values, or character.
What is OCD?
OCD is a chronic mental health condition characterized by recurring, unwanted intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours or mental acts performed to reduce the distress caused by those thoughts (compulsions). Common subtypes include Pure-O (primarily mental obsessions), contamination OCD, harm OCD, and — particularly relevant in faith communities — scrupulosity (religious OCD), where individuals experience obsessive doubts about sin, purity, prayer validity, or their relationship with God.
Common Signs & Symptoms
- Intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that cause significant distress
- Fear of contamination, germs, or illness leading to excessive washing or cleaning
- Doubts about whether one has completed a task (locking doors, turning off appliances)
- Need for symmetry, order, or exactness
- Unwanted thoughts about harming oneself or others (harm OCD)
- Religious obsessions: excessive doubt about sin, purity, blasphemy, or one's faith (scrupulosity)
- Compulsive reassurance-seeking (repeatedly asking others if something is okay)
- Mental compulsions: counting, praying in specific ways to neutralize thoughts
- Significant time spent on obsessions and compulsions (often 1+ hours per day)
Note: This list is not exhaustive. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, speaking with a mental health professional can help clarify your experience.
How We Can Help
The gold-standard treatment for OCD is Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy, a specialized form of CBT. Our practitioners who specialize in OCD are trained in ERP and understand how to apply it sensitively within Islamic and cultural contexts — particularly for scrupulosity. We do not pathologize faith; instead, we help individuals distinguish between genuine spiritual practice and OCD-driven compulsions, working toward freedom from the disorder.
When to Seek Help
Seek professional help if your obsessions and compulsions are consuming significant time each day, causing significant distress, or interfering with daily functioning, work, or relationships. OCD is highly treatable — the sooner you seek help, the better the outcomes. Importantly, OCD often worsens without treatment as compulsions temporarily relieve anxiety but ultimately reinforce the cycle.
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