About half of all people in the United States who experience mental health issues also struggle with substance use disorder. Co-occurring disorders are characterized by the presence of two or more of these conditions at once and require concurrent treatment to promote recovery. Many persons with OCD also have a history of substance abuse, as they turn to drugs or alcohol in an attempt to alleviate the distressing symptoms they experience. This blog by addiction experts from Taylor Recovery Center highlights the connection between OCD and addiction.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD): What is It?
More than 2 million Americans suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder. There is no difference in the prevalence of OCD between males and women. Since anxiety disorders tend to be hereditary, scientists believe genetics play a big part in whether or not you’ll develop OCD. OCD is characterized by excessive anxiety because of repetitive, intrusive thought patterns. The resulting obsessive actions might be rather diverse from one person to the next. A person with OCD may realize their anxieties are irrational yet still be unable to control their behavior unless they receive treatment.
OCD Symptoms
Each case of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is unique, although all involve some combination of obsessions and compulsions. But for someone with OCD, there may be one obsession that dominates everything else. Although there is a wide range of symptoms associated with OCD, many of them are similar. The following symptoms are common among those who suffer from OCD:
- Fear of getting dirty and germs.
- Intense anxiety.
- High levels of stress.
- Self-harm or suicidal ideations.
- Excess desire for symmetry and order.
- Intrusive and uncontrollable thoughts.
One of the most common signs of OCD is the presence of unwanted or inappropriate thoughts. These intrusive ideas can take many forms, including religious and sexual ones. Compulsive behaviors may develop from such thought patterns, including the following:
- Excessive cleaning of the house.
- Checking doors and locks repeatedly.
- Excessive washing of the hands.
- Adhering to a rigid routine or timetable.
The Link Between Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Addiction
Individuals with OCD may be tempted to self-medicate with drugs or alcohol in order to block out the constant barrage of anxious thoughts that plague their minds. Substance misuse, which typically results in lower levels of self-control, can have the opposite impact. People with OCD are already helpless in the face of their compulsions when they’re sober; being drunk can make them even more susceptible to their obsessions. The same holds true for the influence of drugs and alcohol on compulsive thinking, especially hallucinogens.
OCD and Addiction Treatment
Following an OCD test or diagnosis, the following methods have proven effective in treating OCD and addiction:
- Medication. Antidepressants are sometimes suggested by doctors for treating OCD and addiction. Mood-regulating neurotransmitters are brought into equilibrium by these medications. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a prominent type of this medication.
- Dual Diagnosis. This method of treating OCD takes into account the fact that OCD and addiction often occur together. Medications and establishing a solid support system may be suggested by an expert.
- Outpatient/Inpatient Treatment. Inpatient rehab, often known as residential treatment, demands the patient to take responsibility for his own well-being within a structured setting. In contrast to inpatient treatment, outpatient care is provided to patients outside of the facility. Keep in mind that inpatient programs are reserved for people with severe OCD.
Contact Taylor Recovery Center for The Best Dual Diagnosis Treatments in Houston
It’s time to take action if you or someone you care about is dealing with both OCD and addiction. You’ve found the right place in Taylor Recovery Center, a luxury rehab center dedicated to giving you the attention and assistance you need to get sober. Don’t give your OCD or your addiction the upper hand. Get in touch with us today to take the first step toward long-term recovery. The first step toward a happier, healthier life starts right here.