OCD Subtype:
“Just Right”
Just Right or Symmetry OCD isn’t about being a perfectionist—it’s about the internal tension that builds when something feels “off” in a way you can’t ignore. It’s not just about the way things look. It’s about the way things feel. Whether it’s needing your body to move symmetrically, adjusting objects until they feel balanced, or re-reading a message over and over until it feels right, this subtype of OCD is fueled by the urge to make things click—even if there's no clear reason why.
If your brain is constantly telling you that something is “not quite right,” treatment can help you step out of that loop and learn to tolerate that discomfort without giving into it.
“Just Right” OCD can sound like:
If I don’t fix it, I won’t be able to stop thinking about it.
That didn’t feel right, I have to do it again.
Even though I know it doesn’t matter, I can’t let it go until it feels even.
I know nothing looks out of place, but I need to make sure everything is as it should be.
I can’t stop fixing this—it has to feel balanced.
I’ll click the mouse again because the first time didn’t feel complete.
Common “Just Right” Obsessions
Needing things to be even, symmetrical, or aligned.
Intense distress when things feel asymmetrical, uneven, or out of order.
Fear that something bad will happen if actions or objects aren’t “done right.”
Worrying about finding the “right” word or phrase to effectively articulate your thoughts or respond in conversations, presentations or writing.
Persistently feeling a sense of incompleteness or dissatisfaction, fixating on details like how items are arranged.
Common “Just Right” Compulsions
Arranging, adjusting, or aligning objects repeatedly.
Repeating actions (e.g., tapping, blinking, walking through doorways) until they feel “just right.”
Counting, balancing movements, or doing things symmetrically.
Re-reading, rewriting, or re-speaking until the words feel complete or even.
Mentally reviewing steps or rituals to make sure they were done “correctly.”
OCD Doesn’t Get The Last Word -You do
When OCD says “one more time,” it never means just one more time. If you’re tired of chasing that feeling of “just right,” it might be time to try a new approach.
Specialized OCD treatment can help you stop the cycle—and start moving forward.