If you've found yourself repeatedly counting objects, steps, or even your own breaths, you're not alone. Living with a constant need to count or perform mental calculations can be overwhelming and exhausting—and it's also treatable.
In this post, we hope to shed some light on arithmomania, a lesser-known condition characterized by an obsessive need to count of perform mathematical operations.
By taking our brief quiz, you'll gain insight into your experiences and determine whether your symptoms may be a sign that you're living with arithmomania.
Remember, seeking understanding is the first step toward finding support and relief. If you're concerned about your counting habits, we're here to help you find professional guidance and resources after the quiz.
How accurate is this quiz?
At Best Therapists, we believe that online mental health quizzes can be an excellent first step towards improving our mental health. Quizzes like this one can educate you and provide opportunities for self-reflection, but note that they are not a substitute for professional assessments and diagnoses.
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Example scenarios of arithmomania
- Sarah, a college student, finds herself constantly counting the number of steps she takes between classes. She feels compelled to end on an even number, often taking extra steps or backtracking to ensure this. This habit causes her to be late to lectures and increases her anxiety throughout the day.
- Michael, an office worker, obsessively counts the letters in every sentence he reads or writes. During meetings, he struggles to focus on the content because he's mentally tallying the letters in each speaker's words. This compulsion affects his job performance and causes him significant stress.
- Elena, a homemaker, feels an overwhelming need to count and recount the items in her grocery cart. She spends excessive time at the store, often recounting multiple times to reach a "safe" or "good" number. This behavior strains her relationships as family members grow frustrated with the extended shopping trips and her inability to complete errands efficiently.
Disclaimer: The examples provided are fictional scenarios created for illustrative and informational purposes only. They are not based on real individuals but are designed to represent typical experiences of people with arithmomania. These examples should not be used for self-diagnosis. If you have concerns about your own experiences, please consult with a qualified mental health professional.