OCD and Addiction Treatment at Wellbridge

How Are Addiction and OCD Related?

Addiction and OCD share several underlying mechanisms and can often co-occur. Both disorders involve dysregulation of the brain’s reward system and neurotransmitter pathways, particularly those involving dopamine, serotonin, and glutamate.[2, 3]

In OCD, people experience intrusive thoughts or obsessions, which lead to repetitive behaviors or compulsions aimed at reducing distress or preventing perceived harm.[4] These compulsions can be time-consuming and interfere with daily functioning. Similarly, addiction involves compulsive drug-seeking and use despite negative consequences, driven by cravings and an inability to control substance use.

Research suggests that individuals with OCD may be more susceptible to developing addiction, as they may turn to substances as a means of self-medication to alleviate anxiety or distress caused by obsessive thoughts.[5] Unfortunately, substance use can exacerbate OCD symptoms or trigger compulsive behaviors as well.

The complex interplay between these disorders underscores the importance of integrated treatment approaches that address both the underlying mental health issues and substance misuse simultaneously.

What Are the Symptoms of OCD and Co-Occurring Issues?

Research demonstrates that OCD is often exacerbated by co-occurring issues and can include the following symptoms:[6, 7]

OCD Symptoms

• Obsessive thoughts or intrusive urges that cause significant distress
• Compulsive behaviors or rituals performed in response to obsessions
• Fear of contamination, leading to excessive hand-washing or cleaning rituals
• Need for symmetry or order, resulting in repetitive behaviors or counting
• Hoarding or difficulty discarding possessions due to perceived necessity
• Checking rituals, such as repeatedly ensuring doors are locked, or appliances are turned off
• Intrusive thoughts of harming oneself or others despite no actual intent
• Excessive doubting or uncertainty, leading to repetitive questioning or seeking reassurance
• Superstitious beliefs or rituals to prevent harm or bad luck
• Avoidance of specific situations or objects that trigger obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors.

Symptoms of Co-Occurring Issues

• An increased tolerance to substances leads to higher consumption
• Withdrawal symptoms when not using the substance
• Using substances to cope with other symptoms
• Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school due to substance use
• Continued substance use despite awareness of the problems it causes
• Increased isolation and withdrawal from social interactions
• Heightened anxiety or panic attacks related to both depression and substance use

Statistics About OCD and Substance Use Disorder

OCD frequently co-occurs with substance use disorder, with research indicating a substantial overlap between these two conditions, with anywhere from 10% to 40% of people with OCD also suffering from a substance use disorder.[8] It’s also been reported that less than half of people with co-occurring OCD and SUD(s) seek treatment, highlighting the importance of quality co-occuring disorder care being made available.

A recent study in 2022 found that people with an OCD diagnosis had a 3.7-fold elevated risk of substance misuse, with the potentially shared genetic predispositions of both conditions cited as a primary reason for the association.[9]

Treatment for OCD and Co-occuring Disorders at Wellbridge

Co-occuring disorder treatment at Wellbridge offers a comprehensive range of evidence-based treatments and therapeutic modalities aimed at addressing addiction and compulsive behavior at the same time: