Addiction is a complex condition that can keep people from living full, healthy lives. Research shows that about half of all people with a substance use disorder (SUD) also have a mental health disorder.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that causes unwanted thoughts and compulsive behaviors. The symptoms of OCD can make it more challenging to overcome addiction.
Understanding OCD can help you seek the addiction treatment you need to recover. This article will explore what OCD is and how to identify common symptoms.
What you will learn:
- The symptoms of OCD
- The connection between OCD and SUD
- How to treat OCD and addiction
- Where to find effective treatment for OCD and addiction in San Antonio, TX
Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists now to learn about our OCD and addiction treatment programs. Our intake staff can answer your questions, verify your insurance, or help you schedule an intake appointment.
What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
Millions of people live with anxiety disorders, including obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Popular TV shows and movies sometimes portray characters living with OCD. However, these examples do not typically offer realistic representations of living with this condition.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder can cause disruptive symptoms that interfere with daily life. People may spend hours and excessive energy managing their symptoms.
Here is an overview of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) criteria for diagnosing OCD.
Obsessions
People with OCD may experience obsessive thoughts. They may become hyper-focused on specific ideas or beliefs, or struggle to stop thinking about their obsessions.
Some examples of common OCD obsessions include:
- Intrusive, violent thoughts about self or others
- Thinking a lot about religious ideas or becoming focused on “sinful” thoughts
- Focusing on “good” or “bad” numbers
- An intense fear of contamination, illness, or germs
- Excessive fear about other people dying from injury or illness
- Unwanted, intrusive thoughts about sexual behaviors
For many, obsessive thoughts can lead to repetitive or compulsive behaviors. The compulsive behaviors of OCD may be similar to behaviors in substance use disorder (SUD).
Obsessive thoughts can cause intense, chronic stress or lead to destructive behaviors.
Compulsions
The other primary OCD symptoms are compulsions. Compulsions are behaviors, rituals, or actions people feel they “must” do.
Some examples of common compulsions include:
- Excessive cleaning or hand washing
- Repeatedly checking and re-checking to make sure doors are locked, appliances are off, etc.
- Tapping, repeating words, counting, and other repetitive actions to reduce anxiety or stress
- Hoarding items
- Praying obsessively
According to the DSM, a person’s behaviors must consume at least an hour per day to meet the criteria for OCD.
Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about our diagnostic assessments, treatment programs, and other mental health resources.
Understanding the Connection Between OCD and Addiction
Research shows a link between OCD and substance use disorder (SUD). About one in four people with OCD also live with substance abuse or addiction. But what is behind this connection?
The symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder can cause distress, frustration, and exhaustion. People with OCD may spend several hours a day engaging in repetitive behaviors or rituals. The stress of obsessive, intrusive thoughts can be very hard to manage.
Some people turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate their mental health symptoms. Self-medication may provide temporary relief, but can lead to other risks, including addiction.
Some mental health experts believe that there is some overlap between the compulsions common in OCD and SUD. This may contribute to the high rates of SUD among people with obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Overcoming SUD and OCD can be challenging. However, specialized, comprehensive treatment programs can provide the support people need to address these complex conditions simultaneously.
Treatment for OCD and Addiction in San Antonio
People living with mental health conditions and SUD must receive treatment for both conditions at the same time. Texas treatment programs can provide holistic support for OCD and addiction.
Here is an overview of what to expect during treatment for OCD and addiction.
Assessment
Research shows that tailored treatment has better long-term outcomes. Before starting a treatment program, a medical professional or addiction specialist will evaluate your needs and recommend a level of treatment. The assessment may include:
- Questions about your past and current substance use
- A medical and mental health history
- Family history of SUD or mental health conditions
- Lab testing
- A physical exam
This information will help your treatment team provide the best possible care.
Detox
Treatment plans may begin with a medical detox program. During detox, medical and mental health specialists will assess your needs and provide care that may include:
- Round-the-clock supervision
- Medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and treat mental health symptoms
- Holistic therapies for comfort
- Emotional support
These therapies can keep you safe and comfortable during detox.
Treatment
After completing detox, people must continue treatment to address the roots of OCD and SUD. Comprehensive treatment plans may include:
- Individual, group, and family therapy
- Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
- Behavioral therapies, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure and response prevention therapies
- Medication management
- Relapse prevention education
- Nutrition support, exercise, mindfulness, and other holistic therapies
- Aftercare planning
Holistic treatment programs aim to help individuals manage the symptoms of OCD while working to overcome substance use disorder.
Find Treatment for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Addiction
If you or someone you love lives with substance abuse and a mental health condition, find dual diagnosis treatment and support at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team to explore our programs or to schedule your initial assessment.
References:
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- American Psychiatric Association (APA): What Is are Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders?
- JAMA Network: Association of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms With Substance Misuse in 2 Longitudinal Cohorts in Sweden
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Substance Use Disorders in an Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Clinical Sample
