Homosexual Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (HOCD), sometimes referred to as Sexual Orientation OCD or Sexual Orientation Obsessions, is a form of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) that involves distressing and intrusive thoughts or obsessions related to one’s sexual orientation. Individuals with HOCD may experience excessive doubts and anxieties about their sexual identity, even when they are actually heterosexual or have a different sexual orientation.
Here are some common features of HOCD:
1. Intrusive Thoughts: Individuals with HOCD often experience unwanted and distressing thoughts about being attracted to individuals of the same sex, even if they have never experienced such attractions before.
2. Doubt and Uncertainty:HOCD is characterized by intense doubt and uncertainty about one’s sexual orientation. Individuals may repeatedly question their own feelings and attractions.
3. Avoidance Behaviors:To cope with the distress caused by these obsessions, individuals with HOCD may engage in avoidance behaviors such as avoiding social situations or relationships with individuals of the same sex.
4. Compulsions:People with HOCD may engage in mental or behavioral compulsions to alleviate their anxiety. For example, they might seek reassurance from others or perform mental rituals to convince themselves of their true sexual orientation.
It’s important to note that having intrusive thoughts about one’s sexual orientation does not necessarily mean someone has HOCD. OCD can manifest in many forms, and intrusive thoughts can target various aspects of life. If you or someone you know is experiencing distressing thoughts related to their sexual orientation or any other form of OCD, it is essential to seek help.
Having helped many clients with HOCD, I understand how distressing it is and how much shame the person hold around themselves and the Obsessive Intrusive thoughts and I always believe that you can fully heal. In my treatment of HOCD, we don’t treat the Obsessive Intrusive thought, we actually heal and treat the nervous system and learn to release the fear based emotion that is creating the Obsessive Intrusive thoughts and compulsions.
If you or someone you know suffers with HOCD, I invite you to listen to this podcast episode where I shine light on HOCD and how to heal.
HOCD Recovery
If you or someone you know is struggling with HOCD it is so important to seek help. I understand it can be daunting to speak to someone but understand I too was in that place and now thankfully I am in a place to offer you support and guidance on how you can heal OCD.
To learn more about how you can become FREE FROM OCD, check out my Webinar.