Navigating Morality (Moral) OCD
Updated: September 5, 2024Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is often linked to repetitive behaviours and intrusive thoughts. But there's a lesser-known type of OCD that focuses on morality and ethics. This condition is known as Moral OCD (also known as morality or scrupulosity). Like other forms of OCD, it can greatly affect your daily life, relationships, and well-being.
What is Moral OCD?
Moral OCD involves obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours related to morality, ethics, or religious beliefs. While traditional OCD involves things like excessive handwashing or checking rituals. Moral OCD involves obsessions about right and wrong, sin, or ethical purity. For example, you might worry that you're "bad" or "going to hell" because of certain thoughts you've had.
For someone with Moral OCD, everyday actions or thoughts can trigger strong feelings of guilt, shame, or anxiety. For instance, a simple action like accidentally stepping on a crack in the sidewalk could cause intense guilt because you see it as morally wrong or believe it will lead to bad consequences.
Symptoms of Moral OCD
Recognizing Moral OCD can be tough because its symptoms often overlap with other types of OCD or anxiety disorders. Here are some common symptoms:
Obsessive Thoughts. Persistent intrusive thoughts about moral or ethical issues. Often involving themes of sin, punishment, or harming others (physically or sexually).
Compulsive Behaviours. Repetitive actions aimed at reducing anxiety from these intrusive thoughts. This might include excessive praying, seeking reassurance from others, or avoiding situations that bring up moral dilemmas.
Excessive Guilt. Strong feelings of guilt or shame, even over minor or imagined issues.
Impact on Daily Life. Difficulty functioning in everyday activities because of the focus on moral concerns.
Common Avoidant Behaviours for Moral OCD
People or situations that might trigger moral doubts.
Media or conversations that involve ethical or moral issues.
Places of worship or religious gatherings.
Certain activities or hobbies that might be perceived as morally questionable.
Making decisions out of fear of choosing the "wrong" option.
Social situations to avoid potential moral conflicts or judgments.
Specific thoughts or memories that provoke moral anxiety.
Common Rituals for Moral OCD
Excessive praying for forgiveness or reassurance.
Repeatedly seeking reassurance from others about moral or ethical decisions.
Engaging in detailed confessions to religious or spiritual leaders.
Performing acts of penance or atonement.
Repeating certain phrases or mantras to neutralize "bad" thoughts.
Overanalyzing past actions to ensure they were morally acceptable.
Creating and adhering to strict moral or ethical guidelines and routines.
Frequently asking others if they perceive them as a good or moral person.
Causes and Triggers of Moral OCD
The exact cause of Moral OCD isn't fully understood. It's likely a mix of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors. Other contributing factors could be:
Traumatic experiences
Strict religious upbringing
Cultural influences
Moral uncertainty
Religious rituals
Media or ethical dilemmas
If you can't think of a specific cause or trigger to your moral OCD, no need to worry! Sometimes we can develop OCD for no particular reason.
Book a free consultation to learn how we can help. We have a variety of OCD therapists to choose from. We provide therapy to Ontario residents. Discover our counselling fees.
Treatment for Moral OCD
Moral OCD can affect your life in a significant way. It can lead to isolation, depression, or even severe thoughts like suicide. But, there are effective treatment options available:
ERP for Moral OCD
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is the most effective therapy for OCD, including Moral OCD. ERP is a form of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). It can help you face your fears and teach you how to tolerate uncertainty. It also involves stopping compulsive rituals.
Medication
Sometimes, doctors may prescribe antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications to help with OCD symptoms. If your OCD is severe, you might need both medication and ERP.
Support Groups
Joining support groups or talking to religious leaders can provide valuable support and encouragement. It's important not to seek reassurance from support groups or leaders.
Breaking the Stigma of OCD
One of the biggest challenges for people with Moral OCD is the stigma around their mental health condition. Misunderstanding and judgment from others can keep people from seeking help or sharing their experiences.
As a society, we need to build understanding and empathy for those dealing with mental health disorders, including Moral OCD. By encouraging open conversations and challenging stereotypes, we can create a more accepting environment. It's important that people feel safe seeking help without fear of judgment.
Connect with an OCD Therapist
Moral OCD is a complex and often misunderstood condition that can significantly impact your life. By raising awareness, recognizing symptoms, and providing support and treatment options, we can help those affected by Moral OCD take control of their thoughts and behaviours.
If you or someone you know is struggling with Moral OCD or any other mental health issue, don't hesitate to seek professional help. With the right support and treatment, you can manage OCD symptoms and live a fulfilling life.
Book a Free Consultation with Us
You can book a free consultation to find out how ERP counselling can help you overcome Moral OCD. Learn more about our therapy fees and ERP for OCD.
