Is OCD Neurodivergent? Different Brains, Different Needs

The question of whether Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) falls under the category of neurodivergence is something people are asking me about more and more as mental health issues are increasingly common amongst children and adults. For three decades, I have supported the neurodivergent and those with mental health issues across a variety of settings.

This topic, while intriguing, is not black and white and opens up a realm of debate and discussion in the mental health community. 

The Debate: Is OCD Considered Neurodivergent?

The question of whether OCD is neurodivergent lies at the intersection of evolving understandings of brain function, mental health, and the neurodiversity movement. Neurodivergence typically includes conditions like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, recognized for their distinct neurological make-up. 

OCD, traditionally viewed as an anxiety disorder due to its hallmark obsessions and compulsions, poses a unique case. Its inclusion as a form of neurodivergence is debatable and hinges on broader definitions and perceptions of neurodiversity and whether or not mental health conditions should be  included due to so many root causes. 

Exploring the Layers of Neurodiversity and OCD

By understanding the diverse spectrums of brain function and mental health conditions, we can gain insights and guidance for parents navigating these waters with their children.

Instead of only thinking about life long conditions, we are moving toward empowerment and using neurodivergent strengths to help individuals find success.  It may mean school or work accommodations that allow for equity. 

What Does Neurodivergent Mean?

Neurodivergence meaning refers to variations in the human brain regarding sociability, learning, attention, mood, and other mental functions. 

The neurodiversity definition is often used in the neurodiversity movement, which advocates for the acceptance of neurological differences as natural human variations. This perspective includes conditions like autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and potentially, OCD, which can be thought as by some as ‘neurodivergent disorders.' 

With the rise in neurodivergence, it is harder to even determine what makes someone neurotypical today! The neurodivergent brain is increasingly the norm. 

Understanding the Core Features of Neurodiversity

As we delve into the intricate relationship between Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and neurodivergence, it's essential to first understand what neurodiversity entails. 

So, what does it mean to be neurodivergent? Neurodiversity has become a concept that's reshaping our understanding of neurological differences. 

By exploring these core features, we'll gain a clearer perspective on how conditions like OCD might fit within the broader neurodiverse spectrum. 

Neurodiversity celebrates the idea that there's no single “normal” or “right” type of brain or mind. It isn't about neurodivergent symptoms but rather variations. You may wonder, “What is neurodivergent?,” “What is neurodivergence?” or “what is neurodiverse?” and be confused about neurodiversity meaning. 

 Neurodivergent core features include:

• Variation and Individuality: Recognizing that every brain functions uniquely.
• Acceptance and Inclusivity: Promoting acceptance of diverse neurological conditions.
• Understanding and Adaptation: Encouraging a deeper understanding of different neurotypes and adapting environments to be more inclusive.

Are People With OCD Considered Neurodivergent?

The classification of OCD as a form of neurodivergence is debated. While OCD involves unique brain function and challenges similar to other neurodivergent conditions, it's traditionally viewed more as an anxiety disorder (although distinctly different). However, the neurodiversity movement's inclusive approach opens up conversations about whether OCD should be considered under this umbrella.

OCD: Key Features and Definitions

What does OCD stand for and what does it mean? OCD stands for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, which is a complex mental health condition that extends far beyond the common misconceptions of mere cleanliness or orderliness. It's characterized by a pattern of unwanted thoughts and fears (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors (compulsions). These symptoms go deeper into the psychological fabric of an individual, significantly affecting their daily life and overall well-being.

Is OCD on a spectrum as commonly portrayed in the media? Yes and no. OCD symptoms vary from person to person and can wax and wane depending on a variety of factor. It also co-occurs with other conditions. While many wonder if OCD is a sign of autism, it isn't. OCD and ASD do co-occur at a high rate and behaviors such as OCD stimming can be overlapping. 

To learn more about what's the difference between autism and neurodivergent brain, listen to my It's Gonna Be OK! podcast series on OCD. 

Understanding Obsessions

• Nature of Obsessions: These are intrusive, persistent thoughts, images, or urges that trigger intensely distressing feelings. Unlike everyday worries about real-life problems, obsessions are excessive and not proportionate to the actual risk involved.
• Common Obsessions: They can include fears of contamination, intense worry about safety or harm (to oneself or others), and deeply ingrained fears of making mistakes or acting against personal morals or religious beliefs.
• Impact on the Individual: Obsessions often cause significant anxiety or discomfort. The individual usually tries to ignore or suppress these thoughts or neutralize them with some other thought or action, leading to compulsions.

Understanding Compulsions

• Nature of Compulsions: Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that a person feels driven to perform in response to an obsession. The behaviors typically aim to prevent or reduce anxiety related to the obsessions or prevent some dreaded event or situation; however, these acts are not connected in a realistic way with what they are designed to neutralize or prevent, or they are clearly excessive.
• Common Compulsions: These can range from physical behaviors like handwashing, checking, or arranging objects in a particular way, to mental acts like praying, counting, or repeating certain words silently.
• The Compulsive Cycle: Engaging in these compulsions provides temporary relief from the anxiety caused by the obsessions, but this relief is short-lived. This often leads to a reinforcing cycle, where the more the individual performs these compulsions, the more they feel the need to continue doing so.

The Impact of OCD on Daily Life

• Disruption in Daily Activities: The intensity of the obsessions, compulsions and rituals can consume hours of a person's day, significantly interfering with their daily activities, social interactions, work, and family responsibilities.
• Emotional and Physical Toll: The chronic nature of this cycle can lead to a range of emotional challenges, including feelings of shame, guilt, or frustration. Physically, it can lead to exhaustion or even manifest as physical symptoms related to the compulsive behaviors (like skin irritation from excessive washing).
• Need for Control and Certainty: A hallmark of OCD is the overwhelming need for control and certainty in the face of their obsessions. This often leads to a paradox where the more control they seek, the less in control they feel and the more they ruminate. This can especially impact relationships. 

Understanding these key features and definitions of OCD is crucial in recognizing its complexity and the profound impact it has on those who suffer from it. This comprehension forms the foundation for exploring how OCD relates to the concept of neurodiversity and what this means for treatment and support for individuals with OCD.