Is OCD Neurodivergent?

Many experts say "YES," though not everyone agrees.

• YES. Simply Psychology. "OCD is viewed as neurodiverse in origin because it satisfies the primary criteria of a neurodivergent disorder—people with OCD have a brain that processes and behaves differently from what is considered typical."
• YES. NeuroSpark Health. "OCD is widely considered neurodivergent, reflecting the growing recognition of diverse neurological conditions beyond autism and ADHD."
• YES. Carescribe.io. "Having OCD makes someone neurodivergent because neuroscientists and researchers believe that it’s rooted in a complex set of biological, physical, and developmental factors."
• MAYBE. The Mighty. "There is a lot of debate as to whether OCD fits within the neurodiversity movement, but in recent years, many people have come to understand that if neurodiverse disorders or conditions are ones where the brain works differently to process or learn things, then a person with OCD could be considered neurodivergent."
• MAYBE. Healthline. "From a clinical perspective, there’s no universal agreement on whether OCD should be categorized as a neurodivergent condition."
• NO. Mercy Mental and Health Services. "OCD isn't usually classified under neurodivergent conditions like autism or ADHD. But more­ people are re­alizing that neurodiversity includes a broader range of cognitive differences."

On Reddit, 70% agree while 30% think it should not be classified as such.

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Why Does It Matter If OCD Is Considered Neurodivergent?

This isn’t just a semantic debate. It’s about shifting perspectives from "something is wrong with you" to "your brain works differently."

For many, embracing the neurodivergent "label" feels empowering. But it’s not universal. Some prefer to keep OCD in the perspective of mental health disorders, emphasizing treatment and recovery rather than identity.

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What Does Neurodivergent Really Mean?

Neurodivergence refers to variations in brain functioning that differ from what’s considered "typical." It’s not about deficits—it’s about differences. Typical examples include ADHD, autism, and dyslexia, but the conversation around what qualifies is constantly evolving.

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What Exactly Is OCD?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a condition characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) aimed at reducing anxiety. For instance, someone with OCD might wash their hands dozens of times because they feel an overwhelming fear of germs.

What’s interesting is how OCD operates in the brain. Dr. Catherine M. Pittman, in her book Rewire Your OCD Brain, explains that "parts of the brain related to OCD symptoms include areas of the frontal lobes in the cortex, the basal ganglia, and connections between the frontal lobes and the amygdala." These regions are responsible for decision-making, emotional regulation, and habit formation. When they’re out of sync, it can lead to the cycles of obsessions and compulsions we see in OCD.

(Source: Rewire Your OCD Brain, Pittman & Youngs, 2021)

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How Is OCD Similar to or Different From Other Neurodivergent Conditions?

Neurodivergent conditions often share overlapping traits, like sensitivity or repetitive behaviors. For example, someone with autism might engage in repetitive routines for comfort, while someone with OCD might repeat actions to alleviate anxiety.

The key difference is that OCD behaviors are often caused by fear or anxiety—like washing hands repeatedly to avoid imagined harm—while stimming in neurodivergent conditions is usually a way to stay calm or manage feelings. This is why some experts hesitate to call OCD neurodivergent, even though it involves unique brain activity similar to other neurodivergent traits.

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What Are Some Helpful Tips for Living With OCD?

If you’re living with OCD, daily life can feel like a series of hurdles. Here are a few strategies that have helped others:

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1. Get Creative

There is a notable connection between OCD and creativity. Historical figures like Nikola Tesla and Charles Darwin are believed to have had OCD, and their obsessive tendencies contributed to their groundbreaking work. People with OCD usually are very imaginative and have intrusive thoughts, which can be both distressing and overwhelming. 

Engaging in activities such as writing, painting, or music can help to express these inner experiences, potentially relieving some of the distress associated with the disorder.

Here are some creative tools options that might help to deal with your creativity:

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GoBrunch

Creating and controlling environments is definitely something that helps people with OCD. 

Here you can design a virtual room with your favorite colors, calming scenarios, and every detail just the way you want it. For example, it is possible to create a peaceful forest scene or a cozy study with soft lighting—whatever helps you feel safe and at ease. 

This is especially helpful for managing anxiety because it provides a sense of stability and order. Plus, the process of customizing these spaces can be really therapeutic in itself. 

When shared in a community, these spaces can create connections and reduce feelings of isolation. 

For people with social anxiety, being part of a like-minded group can make interactions feel less overwhelming.

Artbreeder

A tool for creating unique character designs and artwork by combining and tweaking existing art styles—great for imaginative exploration.

Campfire

A tool for building fictional worlds and stories, offering an outlet for imaginative ideas in a structured way.

OmmWriter

A minimalist writing app designed to enhance focus and reduce distractions while fostering creativity.

Zenkit

A versatile tool for visualizing ideas, organizing projects, and mapping out workflows with a clean, user-friendly design.

Mandala Maker Online

A tool for designing beautiful mandalas with ease, combining creativity with mindfulness.

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2. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness techniques, like meditation or deep breathing, can help ground you when intrusive thoughts arise. It’s not about stopping the thoughts but learning to observe them without judgment.

Some apps that might be helpful:

Buddhify

Offers over 80 custom meditations tailored to various activities and times of day, such as commuting, work breaks, or preparing for sleep.

Smiling Mind

Developed by psychologists and educators, it aims to make mindfulness accessible to all.

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3. Explore Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), is one of the most effective treatments for OCD. It’s challenging but incredibly rewarding.

Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies (ABCT)

Provides a 'Find-a-Therapist' service that connects you with licensed professionals specializing in CBT.

Psychology Today

This platform offers a comprehensive directory of therapists, including those specializing in CBT.

National Association of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapists (NACBT)

NACBT provides a directory of therapists certified in CBT.

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What Are Common Medications for OCD?

Medication can be an effective part of a comprehensive treatment plan for OCD. It is often used in conjunction with therapy to manage symptoms.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

SSRIs are commonly used antidepressants that help regulate serotonin levels in the brain, which can reduce OCD symptoms. Examples include fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and fluvoxamine (Luvox). These medications often take 8-12 weeks to show significant effects, and doses for OCD are typically higher than those used for depression.

Clomipramine

Clomipramine is a tricyclic antidepressant specifically effective for OCD. It works by affecting serotonin levels similarly to SSRIs but may have more side effects, such as drowsiness or dry mouth. It is often reserved for individuals who do not respond well to SSRIs.

Augmentation Strategies

For those with treatment-resistant OCD, a doctor may recommend adding a second medication to the treatment plan. Atypical antipsychotics like aripiprazole or risperidone are sometimes used alongside SSRIs to enhance their effectiveness. These are typically considered only after other options have been explored.

Important: Medication for OCD should always be prescribed and monitored by a licensed healthcare professional. It is important to discuss potential side effects and individual risks with your doctor before starting or changing any medication.

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How Can We Support People With OCD?

Whether or not OCD is officially labeled as neurodivergent, one thing is clear: support is vital. If you know someone with OCD, here’s how you can help:

• Be Patient: Understand that their behaviors aren’t "choices."
• Avoid Judgment: Refrain from minimizing their experiences or saying, "Just stop doing that."
• Learn More: Educate yourself about OCD so you can offer informed support.