A common misconception is that compulsions must be physical, such as trying out every seat on the train or touching your toes 20 times. But compulsions can also be performed mentally, such as repeating words or phrases, making mental lists of items, or continuously praying. Mental compulsions in OCD are just as distressing as physical compulsions. However, mental compulsions are by nature more hidden, so people who experience them may evade detection and go longer without finding help.