Excessive hand washing can be a symptom of OCD, but OCD is about much more than just cleanliness.

Understanding OCD and hand washing

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is an anxiety-related condition. Some people with OCD experience obsessive thoughts about germs or contamination, which can lead to compulsive behaviours like repeated hand washing. This is done to relieve anxiety, but the relief is usually short-lived, and the cycle can become distressing and time-consuming.

OCD is more than cleanliness

It’s a common myth that OCD is only about being clean or tidy. In reality, OCD can involve a wide range of unwanted thoughts and ritualistic behaviours, such as:

• Repeated checking (like doors or appliances)
• Arranging or ordering items until they feel “just right”
• Counting or repeating actions
• Hoarding or struggling to throw things away
  
  

Focusing only on cleanliness can make it harder for people to recognise other symptoms and can add to stigma.