One of the more daunting and under-discussed aspects of mental health is co-morbidity. It’s quite common for more than one disorder to be present in a person, but it’s not always easy to identify. This reality can make it challenging to properly diagnose and design treatment priorities. For example, it’s not unusual for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) to be associated with depressive disorders. 

As many as half the people with OCD will also be diagnosed with depression. Thus, it makes sense to explore the correlation between these two conditions. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at the basics.

OCD & Depression: What Comes First?

The answer is not crystal clear, but empirically, the vast majority of instances involve OCD arising before depression. Considering the distress OCD causes daily, this trend is not a surprise. Yes, depression can potentially come first and rarely do the two disorders emerge simultaneously. But, for the purposes of this conversation, the evidence currently points toward depression as part of obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Does This Mean OCD Causes Depression?

Sometimes, yes. OCD symptoms present a relentless challenge. Obsessive, intrusive thoughts cause anxiety, guilt, and shame. Compulsive actions negatively impact all aspects of your life. Living with this is enough to bring anyone to a depressive state.

Meanwhile, however, a clear cause of OCD has not yet been identified. As of now, the following factors are being explored:

• Specific issues within the brain

• Genetics and family history 

• Childhood trauma

• Streptococcal infection

Correlation Between Obsessions, Compulsions, and Symptoms 

Obsessions

The O in OCD is used to describe those unwanted thoughts that kick the cycle into effect. These disturbing intrusions can completely shift a person’s self-perception. Over time, this process lands the person with OCD on the road to depression. How much fear, anxiety, and rumination can they take? This highlights why treatment is critical. When someone with OCD has confidence that they can manage their obsessions, they are less likely to experience despair. 

Compulsions

Compulsions are the rituals people with OCD perform in the name of easing anxiety. They know the actions are not logical, but if they can prevent the intrusive thoughts for a while, that’s all the logic they need.  

The act of performing compulsions is energy-intensive and time-consuming. Compulsions are typically obvious, too. Hence, depression enters the picture when you calculate how much this disorder hampers daily functioning and brings on negative attention. 

OCD and Depression: Overlapping Symptoms

• Both disorders are associated with negative self-beliefs

• You’ll notice that your thought patterns can exacerbate symptoms 

• OCD and depression both decrease one’s daily functioning, relationships and interactions, and general mood

• Both have similar treatment plans that may include therapy, medication, mindfulness, and physical activity like yoga

OCD and Depression: Crucial Differences 

Of course, each case can be incredibly unique, but general trends exist. For example, OCD has hallmark signs like repetitive thoughts, behaviors, and tic disorders. None of these are associated with depression. 

Self-Help Tips For People With OCD and Depression

• Address the OCD symptoms before taking on the depression. This typically improves the co-existing depression.

• Physical activity has been found to ease symptoms for both disorders. 

• Do not self-isolate. It’s tempting to withdraw, but you need human connection and love now more than ever. 

The bottom line, however, involves finding a mental health professional with whom you have a good rapport. As daunting as the OCD-depression is, it can be managed, and you can reclaim so much more control over your life. The key is to be consistent and compliant with the treatment plan. If you or someone you know is struggling with these co-existing conditions, let’s talk soon.

Learn more about OCD Treatment.