You may be experiencing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or problems with substance use, but did you know they may be related? The emotional distress that accompanies these issues can seem unbearable, and you may feel as though there is no way out. However, there are plenty of resources surrounding OCD and substance use disorder (SUD), and there are several outlets and communities for you to explore these topics.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), obsessive-compulsive disorder is often a long-lasting disorder in which a person has uncontrollable, reoccurring thoughts (obsessions), and behaviors (compulsions) that he or she feels the urge to repeat over and over. Obsessive-compulsive disorder causes notable physical and mental distress from intrusive thoughts or urges. Individuals may attempt to ignore unwanted thoughts or images by suppressing them with a different thought or action.
Examples of OCD include: excessive hand washing to the point of dry and bleeding skin, counting and repeating words silently, locking and unlocking the door several times before leaving the house, or hoarding certain items. Compulsions are learned behaviors that become habitual when they are associated with relief from anxiety. Oftentimes, distorted beliefs reinforce the symptoms associated with OCD. The brain is inclined to create and consistently use neural pathways that are related to pleasure. When someone with OCD indulges their compulsion or obsession, the brain learns that this action brings about a good feeling, further reinforcing the obsessive-compulsive disorder. Breaking the habits of this disorder can be incredibly difficult because this involves changing the brain’s wiring. Learned behaviors require unlearning those behaviors. Imagine trying to unlearn the alphabet — tricky, right?
The Beginnings of OCD
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is an anxiety disorder that affects around 2-3% of the population. OCD typically begins in late childhood or early adolescence. People with OCD are usually aware of their obsessions and compulsions, but feel helpless and unable to control them. They usually have exaggerated views of average concerns. These concerns could be excessive fear of germs and illnesses, fear of leaving the house, obsessions about numbers and precision, or thoughts about death.
The causes of OCD are not fully understood but there are several theories. One theory is that compulsions are learned behaviors that become repetitive and habitual over time. Another theory is that OCD is due to genetic and hereditary factors. Chemical, structural, and functional abnormalities in the brain could also be the cause. The strong beliefs found in people with OCD reinforce and maintain their symptoms. It is possible that several factors interact to trigger its development. The underlying causes may be further influenced by stressful life events, hormonal changes, and personality traits.
Self-Medication
For those experiencing OCD, it can be an incredibly debilitating disorder. Work or school, relationships, hobbies, and health can all be compromised. The obsessions and compulsions can take up a large portion of one’s day and interrupt the ability to live a normal life. There are feelings of guilt and shame that follow the behaviors of those with OCD. This is where many people turn to substances to self-medicate or relieve their feelings of guilt and anxiety.
People with psychiatric disorders tend to have higher chances of comorbidity with other disorders. Many people with OCD experience anxiety disorder, depression, or extreme phobias. There are numerous people with existing mental health conditions who find themselves with a substance use disorder. With OCD, alcohol tends to be abused more than any other substance.
Treatment
The most common treatment option for OCD is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). The premise of CBT is exposure and response prevention therapy. The therapist exposes the client to the anxiety-provoking obsession and prevents the individual from engaging in the compulsion. What happens in these therapy sessions is that individuals with OCD will initially become very anxious. With further sessions, as they are not allowed to engage in their compulsive behavior, their anxiety level will peak and then dissipate.
People experiencing both OCD and SUD must be treated separately for each disorder. The combination of both disorders can be tricky to pick apart and address without interfering with the other treatment. The process takes time and patience, but the results are worth the freedom.
Obsessive-compulsive disorders and substance use disorders can disrupt behavioral and mental wellbeing and be complex to treat. Individuals with OCD usually have a hard enough time with the obsessions and compulsions, let alone with an additional problem such as addiction. The stressors from carrying out compulsions inflict feelings of guilt and shame, coupled with the additional guilt from substance abuse. It may feel like the weight of the world rests on your shoulders and it may seem unbearable. There is help, and there are people ready to lead you on the journey of healing. Located in Temecula, California, Rancho Milagro is ready to care for you and support your unique recovery journey. Our ranch has a supportive staff with the extensive knowledge you need to begin effective treatment for this mental disorder and any substance abuse disorder that may occur with it. Our plans are tailored to assist you and give you the opportunity for a new, free life. Call us at (951) 526-4582 if you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of OCD or SUD.