Are OCD and Autism Connected?
At first glance, it seems as if OCD and Autism have very little in common. However, recent research suggests that overlaps between the two conditions do exist.
It is estimated that 84% of individuals with autism suffer from some form of anxiety. And more specifically, around 17% have OCD as well. Complicating this connection is that it is also estimated that many people with OCD may have undiagnosed autism.
The Overlap of OCD and Autism
Over the past few decades, researchers have studied how these two mental health disorders work together, interact, and differ. Part of the overlap between OCD and autism is the symptoms that someone experiences. Those with autism may exhibit any number of the following, which are known as restrictive-repetitive behaviors.
Lining up objects
Hyperfocus on certain topics or interests
Obsessively closing and opening up drawers or doors
Sensory issues or overstimulation
Those who have OCD, alternatively, may experience:
Checking habits (rechecking if the door is locked, the oven is off, etc.)
A need for symmetry and order
Hyper focusing on obsessive thoughts
The purpose of the behaviors exhibited in autistic individuals and OCD differ. The behaviors associated with autism provide pleasure, preserve the need for sameness or order, and communicate needs. Alternatively, those with OCD exhibit certain behaviors to reduce anxiety and other distressing feelings.
The Complexities of Autism and OCD
Diagnosing an autistic individual with OCD is more complicated than with those not on the spectrum. Making matters more complicated is that many clinicians in the mental health field often have a strong knowledge of one disorder and only foundational knowledge of the other. Very few have knowledge of how these two conditions can co-exist with one another.
Assessing someone who has autism is complicated as is. While many people with autism do speak, there are just as many who are non-verbal. Some may be verbal but will not speak when feeling dysregulated or overstimulated.
OCD often gets missed in autistic individuals because there is more concern over other conditions that can occur in someone with autism. Those on the spectrum who experience OCD often commonly experience other disorders such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders.
Key Differences Between Autism and OCD
Now that we talked about what each disorder might involve, let's summarize the key differences between these disorders.
Repetitive Behaviors
Repetitive behaviors for autistic individuals might include vocalizations(humming, repeating phrases) or motoric (body rocking, lining up objects.) Their purpose often to provide stimulation or to meet a need.
In those with OCD, repetitive behaviors could include locking doors or washing hands, just to name two. The purpose of these behaviors are to relieve stress caused by obsessive thoughts.
Obsessions
Obsessions for those with autism are the preferred topics they want to discuss or focus on. Individuals with autism will often have a select range of topics or interests.
Obsessions for those with OCD are not wanted and are distressing. These obsessions often come out of nowhere and illicit a sense of dread.
How Are OCD & Autism Treated When They Occur Together?
Now, the next big question: how can you treat autism and OCD when they occur together?
First, it requires a firm understanding of how autism and OCD impact individuals separately. Due to the overlap and similarities between the behaviors, it's important for clinicians to know and understand the behaviors exhibited and the purpose that they are serving.
There isn't a therapeutic approach that currently exists to help someone manage both conditions, so that is done separately. In order to treat OCD, for instance, exposure and response prevention therapy(ERP) is utilized to help someone deal with the OCD symptoms they are experiencing.
At our practice, we take great pride in working with individuals from all walks of life, including those with autism and OCD. If you are interested in learning more about OCD, autism treatment, or ERP, don't hesitate to reach out.