Obsessive-compulsive disorder (ODC) is a psychiatric condition characterized by obsessive thoughts and compulsive behavior that is often misunderstood by the general public.

People with OCD suffer from intrusive and distressing thoughts that compel them to repeat certain behaviors or routines repeatedly. However, there are many other lesser-known obsessions that are just as common, if not more prevalent than OCD. Here are some of the most uncommon obsessions that are more common than we think:.

1. Collecting Obsessions

For some people, collecting items like stamps, coins, or figurines can turn into an obsession.

The act of collecting these items becomes more important than the items themselves, and the collectors feel an urge to acquire more, even if it puts a strain on their finances or relationships. Collecting obsessions are more common than we might think, and these hobbies can bring a sense of comfort and security to people who might otherwise feel anxious or lost.

2. Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a condition in which people become obsessed with perceived flaws in their appearance, frequently fixating on features that others would not even notice.

People with BDD may spend hours each day checking themselves in the mirror, comparing themselves to others, or seeking plastic surgeries that they believe will improve their appearance. BDD can have a severe impact on a person’s quality of life, alarming and affecting them negatively.

3. Hoarding

Hoarding disorder is characterized by an inability to throw away objects, regardless of their actual value or utility.

Hoarders often collect large amounts of things, such as newspapers, clothes, or food, and these possessions can accumulate to the point where they pose a physical hazard. Hoarding can be challenging to treat as it often co-occurs with anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions. However, it is more common than we might think, affecting up to 5% of the population, according to some studies.

4. Trichotillomania

Trichotillomania is a condition where people feel an irresistible urge to pull out their hair, either from their scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, or other areas.

This urge can be so intense that people may struggle to stop themselves, even when they feel embarrassed or distressed. Trichotillomania can be challenging to treat, and it can have a significant impact on a person’s self-esteem and social functioning. However, it is surprisingly common, affecting up to 2% of the population, according to some estimates.

5. Dermatillomania

Dermatillomania, also known as skin picking disorder, is a condition in which people feel an irresistible urge to pick at their skin, causing it to bleed or become infected.

People with dermatillomania may pick at acne, scabs, or other skin imperfections, causing significant damage to their skin. This behavior can cause embarrassment, discomfort, and even pain, but people with dermatillomania may struggle to stop themselves due to the relief they feel when they pick their skin.

Dermatillomania is more common than we might think, affecting up to 5% of the population, according to some studies.

6. Gambling

Compulsive gambling is a condition in which people feel an irresistible urge to gamble, even when it has a severe negative impact on their finances, relationships, or mental health.

People with gambling addictions may become obsessed with winning money or escaping their problems, and they may engage in risky behaviors that they would not otherwise consider. Compulsive gambling can be challenging to treat, but it is surprisingly common, affecting up to 2% of the population, according to some estimates.

7. Internet Addiction

Internet addiction is a condition in which people feel an irresistible urge to use the internet, even when it negatively impacts their mental health, relationships, or work.

People with internet addictions may spend hours browsing social media, playing online games, or watching online videos, leading to feelings of isolation, anxiety, or depression. Internet addiction is increasingly common, particularly among young people who have grown up with technology, and it can be challenging to overcome without professional help.

8. Love Addiction

Love addiction is a form of addiction in which people become obsessed with romance, relationships, or emotional intimacy.

People with love addictions may feel like they cannot function without a partner, and they may engage in unhealthy relationships or behaviors to fulfill their emotional needs. Love addiction can be challenging to recognize, and it can lead to significant distress, depression, or even suicide. It is more common than we might think, affecting up to 3% of the population, according to some estimates.

9. Exercise Addiction

Exercise addiction is a condition in which people become obsessed with physical fitness and exercise, even when it negatively impacts their health or well-being.

People with exercise addictions may feel like they cannot function without a daily workout, and they may engage in dangerous or excessive exercise routines that put their bodies at risk. Exercise addiction is more common than we might think, particularly among athletes or people who have experienced significant weight loss, and it can impair a person’s physical and mental health.

10. Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia is a disorder in which people develop a fear of leaving their homes or being in public places, often due to a fear of having a panic attack or feeling trapped in a situation.

Agoraphobia can be severely limiting, and it can lead to social isolation, depression, or other mental health disorders. However, it is more common than we might think, affecting up to 1.7% of the population, according to some studies.

Conclusion

Obsessions come in many forms, and they can have a severe impact on a person’s quality of life.

However, it is essential to recognize that these conditions are more prevalent than we might think and that there are effective treatments available for those who need them. If you or someone you know is struggling with an obsession, it is essential to seek professional help to find the support and resources needed to overcome these challenges.