Harm OCD

A subtype of OCD characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts about causing harm to oneself or others, despite having no desire or intention to act on these thoughts. People with harm OCD may experience distressing mental images of violence, fear that they might lose control and hurt someone, or obsessive worry that they have already caused harm without realizing it. Compulsions include mental reviewing, avoidance of potential weapons or triggering situations, seeking reassurance, and checking for evidence of harm. Harm OCD is often associated with intense shame and reluctance to disclose symptoms due to fear of being judged or misunderstood.