What’s the Link Between OCD & Depression?

by Katherine Pica, LCSW

If you saw the signs and symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) versus depression, there’s a good chance you’d be able to see some differences, even without much prior knowledge. However there are many differences between the two disorders. They each have different causes, as well as different signs and symptoms. Despite all of the differences, there is a connection between the two. Let’s find out more about the link between OCD and depression.

What is OCD?

OCD stands for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. It’s a common type of mental health issue where an individual may experience persistent thoughts, images or urges. The compulsions come into play because the individuals feel like they have to perform compulsions or certain acts or behave in a certain way in order to control the obsessions they’re experiencing.

These are some of the most common signs and symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder:

Symptoms of OCD Obsessions 

•Excessive concern with germs or contaminates

•Fear of being responsible of terrible events

•Violent Intrusive thoughts or images

•Fear of Harming Self or Others

•Intrusive, unwanted sexual thoughts or images 

•Excessive religious concerns

•Need for symmetry or exactness. 

•Magical or Superstitious Fears

•Excessive concern of being pregnant

•Concerned with having illness or disease

•Just right feelings 

Symptoms of OCD Compulsions 

• Hand washing or Excessive cleaning

• Checking

• Counting

• Mental Review

• Harm obsessions

• Intrusive, unwanted sexual thoughts ○ (POCD, SO-OCD)

• Excessive Prayers or Religious rituals

• Ordering or arranging

• Superstitious rituals

• Excessive googling

• Reassurance or self reassurance

• Avoidance

• Mental Compulsions 

What is Depression?

While OCD is an anxiety disorder, depression is a mood disorder. It’s a common and serious medical disorder that can affect the way a person thinks, feels, and behaves.

Symptoms of Depression

• Low Energy

• Decreased Motivation 

• Body aches and pains

• Changes in appetite

• Difficulty concentration

• Extreme sadness

• Irritable

• Lack of joy in usual activities

• Sleeping problems

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Similarities Between OCD and Depression

OCD and depression are two very different disorders, but they do share some similar symptoms as well as treatment options. Both OCD and depression can affect an individual’s ability to function, their mood, and the relationships in their life. Negative thinking patterns that can lead to worsened symptoms and even negative beliefs about oneself are also common among the two disorders. When it comes to treatment options, OCD therapy is usually recommended to help with signs and symptoms when struggling with both mental health issue. 

The Link Between OCD and Depression

As an OCD therapist we often see those struggling with both OCD and depression.  People who are living with OCD are actually at a greater risk of developing other mental health struggles like depression. In fact, many individuals who are diagnosed with OCD are also diagnosed with depression.

Depression usually begins after the symptoms of OCD present themselves. The intrusive thoughts that an individual dealing with OCD faces can lead to depressive thoughts due to feeling like they’re not in control over their own mind. Because of that, OCD can actually cause depression. OCD can have a huge impact on someone’s daily life and routine. Obsessions and compulsions can be very challenging for individuals to deal with on a daily basis.

While OCD can cause depression, there is no research today that has shown that depression can cause OCD. The theories of causes of OCD are the following: learned behavior and genetics. OCD is likely to cause depression, but depression is unlikely to cause symptoms of OCD.

OCD Therapy and Depression 

If you’re struggling with two different mental health issues, it may feel like there’s no hope. You may even think, ‘What’s the point?’There is so much hope!  It may seem like an overwhelming feat but there are small steps that you can take towards healing, when working with an OCD therapist.    You are not defined by your OCD or your depression.

OCD Therapy San Diego

Whether you’re dealing with OCD, depression, or a combination of the two, you’re not alone. Seek Help from an OCD Therapist. OCD treatment is available to you when you’re ready to receive it. The signs and symptoms you’re experiencing can get worse over time if left untreated, so it’s best to seek support and start treatment as soon as possible.

If you’re interested in learning more about OCD treatment options, reach out to us today to set up a free consultation.

If you are a loved one are experiencing suicidal thoughts please call 911, go to your nearest emergency room, or call one of the numbers below.

National Suicide and Crisis Hotline: 988

NAMI HelpLine: 833-626-4244 or NAMI TextLine: Text NAMI to 741741