Understanding OCD and Autism
We’ve all heard of OCD before - to most of us, it’s the compulsion to overwash hands, touch light switches in a certain order, or tap door handles a certain number of times. What you might not be aware of is how widely OCD can vary, and just how crippling it can be. OCD can also be responsible for obsessive thoughts and fears, and is often common in those with autism.
The NHS defines OCD as a mental health condition where a person has obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviours. It can affect men, woman and children.
Traits of OCD and Autism
It’s not necessarily possible to state whether OCD is caused by autism, or whether obsessive and ritualistic behaviours are simply a trait of the condition. What we can say is that the difference between OCD and autism is anxiety. In someone without autism, OCD is usually driven by anxiety and an overwhelming urge to to perform certain behaviours or think damaging thoughts. Someone with autism however enjoys their routines, and finds security in a structured and organised lifestyle.
Both OCD and autism are neurological disorders, and in both cases people experience obsessive and repetitive actions, although for very different reasons. With autism, a person may become very upset and distressed if their routines and obsessions are interrupted, or even if they are not able to follow them very strictly. Many people with OCD are able to move forward and think more rationally if they are not able to carry out their compulsions, such as coming to the conclusion that they can carry out their rituals later in the day.
The main difference between OCD and autism is the level of anxiety a person experiences when it comes to their behaviours. OCD is generally driven by anxiety, which can be relieved by carrying out ritualistic behaviours, whereas in autism there is often a need for routine which cannot be broken.
A person with OCD also doesn’t enjoy their rituals, whereas those with autism do and find comfort in repetition. Of course it is possible to be diagnosed with OCD as well as autism. This diagnosis would be made when someone shows signs of OCD along with anxiety, as well as impairments in language, communication and social skills.
Diagnosis
If you are the parent of a child displaying signs of OCD, autism or both, it is important to seek a diagnosis so that you can understand what you are dealing with. If you are the loved one of an adult living with OCD or autism, it is well worth taking the time to better understand these disorders to give you the tools you need to help as well as maintain or improve your relationship.
There is a clear link between autism and OCD. Understanding how both work can greatly help anyone affected. If you think you might be on the autism spectrum or have obsessive compulsive disorder it’s essential to your quality of life to get a diagnosis. Our Clinical Psychologists are available to discuss how you are feeling and any problems or struggles you might be facing. The earlier you can get a diagnosis the sooner you can start to understand your behaviours. OCD can be greatly improved with therapy, and if adapted correctly, can also help those on the autistic spectrum too.
