Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Addiction
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (or "OCD") refers to anxiety disorder in which an individual experiences recurring thoughts that cause irrational fears and anxiety. Common types of OCD feature repeated rituals which the individual feels is beyond his power to control, including: counting items, hand-washing and organizing. Performing these rituals provides a kind of temporary relief for the individual when they are being performed, but the anxiety returns soon after they stop. OCD is a highly destructive disease that can overtake the life of an individual and keep him from enjoying many life's most basic activities.
Secrecy is often a key component of OCD, and one that makes for additional complications in treating the disorder. People with OCD are experts in keep their disorder secret, therefore it remains out of the reach of loved ones to identify the problem and assist in seeking out help. Too often, by the time the individual DOES seek out professional help, the illness is in a much more advanced state, and the habits associated with it are more deeply ingrained.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Drug Addiction are a dangerous mix. Those who suffer from OCD experience high levels of anxiety in their daily lives. In order to cope with this anxiety, many turn to drugs or alcohol as a means of escape. This is where things get complicated. An individual who suffers from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is much more likely to see their alcohol or drug use turn into a full blown addiction. Their OCD proves that they have the capacity in them for addiction.
When an individual suffers from both OCD and addiction, this is called a Dual Diagnosis. A Dual Diagnosis refers to any individual who has both an addiction and a form of mental illness. Dual Diagnosis patients must receive specialized care administered by professionals who understands how these afflictions overlap and interact with one another.
What makes an OCD-based Dual Diagnosis so complex is the nature of the OCD itself. Those who suffer from OCD tend to keep their illness private. When they become addicted to drugs or alcohol, they keep that issue secret as well. Therefore, by the time friends and family realize what is going on, the process will likely be in a very advanced state.
There is an urgency to seeking treatment for this dual diagnosis. The longer the problem goes untreated, the more serious the situation becomes. But those who suffer from OCD and drug addiction are unlikely to seek out help for themselves. This makes the involvement of friends and family so important. Intervention in the situation is often required to help the individual in question get the help they need.
Seeking out help for OCD and addiction means finding a program that specializes in Dual Diagnoses. The Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers at Michael's House, LaPaloma and The Canyon are three such facilities. The staff on-call at these residential rehab centers is well-versed in the important issues and treatments surrounding Dual Diagnosis patients.
Contact the Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center near you for more information.
