Have you ever caught yourself wondering if your experience with OCD means you think differently than others? If you have OCD does it mean you’re neurodivergent? You’re not alone.
With approximately 2.2 million adults in the United States living with OCD – roughly 1.2% of the population – countless people ask themselves similar questions every day.
As our understanding of how our brains work continues to evolve, more people are exploring the connection between OCD and neurodivergence – and finding new ways to understand their experiences.
Arbor Wellness offers OCD Treatment in Nashville, TN.
What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?
OCD is characterized by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that a person feels driven to perform in response to these thoughts.
For many people with OCD, these thoughts and rituals can consume more than an hour each day – with studies showing that individuals spend an average of 3-8 hours daily managing their symptoms.
These obsessions and compulsions can significantly interfere with daily activities, relationships, and quality of life.
Common manifestations of OCD include:
- Excessive cleaning
- Checking behaviors
- Ordering and arranging items
- Mental rituals aimed at preventing perceived catastrophic outcomes.
Research indicates that without treatment, up to 90% of people with OCD experience significant impairment in their daily functioning.
More: What Does OCD Feel Like?
Is OCD Neurodivergent?
Yes, many experts and advocates now recognize OCD as a form of neurodivergence, and for good reason.
People with OCD don’t just have different thoughts – their brains actually process information and respond to the world in unique ways.
This isn’t about having a “disorder” that needs fixing; it’s about having a brain that works differently, particularly in how it handles uncertainty, processes risk, and manages daily life.
Research shows these differences aren’t just behavioral – they’re reflected in how various parts of the brain communicate and work together. This understanding has helped many people with OCD reframe their experiences not as something “wrong,” but as part of who they are.
What Exactly Is Neurodivergence?
Neurodivergence refers to variations in neurological structure and function that differ from what is considered typical or “neurotypical.”
This concept emerged from the neurodiversity movement, which advocates for understanding and accepting neurological differences as natural variations in human biology rather than deficits that need to be “fixed.”
Neurodivergence encompasses various ways brains can function and process information differently from the societal norm.
Can Mental Health Disorders Be Forms of Neurodivergence?
Many mental health conditions are increasingly being understood through the lens of neurodivergence.
This perspective acknowledges that these conditions represent different ways of processing information and experiencing the world rather than simply being “disorders” to cure.
This understanding has important approaches toward treatment, focusing on support and accommodation alongside symptom management.
Can You Have OCD and Other Types of Neurodivergence?
Yes, it’s entirely possible and common for individuals to experience OCD alongside other forms of neurodivergence.
In fact, studies show that approximately 90% of people with OCD have at least one other mental health condition or form of neurodivergence.
This co-occurrence is often referred to as neurodivergent pluralism. Research indicates that about 30% of people with OCD also have ADHD, while up to 17% are autistic. Here are some common types of neurodivergence and their characteristics:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Many people with autism experience the world with heightened intensity and detail. While this might mean being more sensitive to sounds, lights, or textures, it can also lead to deep, passionate interests and amazing pattern-recognition abilities. Every autistic person’s experience is unique, but many find their different way of processing the world brings both challenges and remarkable strengths.
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
Living with ADHD means having a brain that’s always on the move.
Affecting approximately 4.4% of adults in the U.S., ADHD represents one of the most common forms of neurodivergence.
While this might make it harder to focus on traditional tasks, many people with ADHD excel at creative problem-solving and can become completely absorbed in projects they’re passionate about. It’s not about having a deficit – it’s about having a different way of engaging with the world.
Dyslexia
Dyslexia changes how people process written language, but it often comes with incredible gifts.
Affecting up to 20% of the population, it’s the most common learning difference. Many people with dyslexia are exceptional storytellers, artists, or entrepreneurs – in fact, studies suggest that around 35% of entrepreneurs are dyslexic. They might struggle with reading text but excel at seeing the big picture and finding creative solutions others might miss.
Tourette Syndrome
Beyond the physical tics most people associate with Tourette’s, many people with this condition experience a unique way of processing sensory information and often develop remarkable adaptability and resilience. Some find they have enhanced abilities in pattern recognition or creative expression.
Bipolar Disorder
People with bipolar disorder often experience emotions and energy levels differently from others. While this can be challenging, many report periods of exceptional creativity, productivity, and insight. Their experience of the world can be more intense and varied, leading to unique perspectives and abilities.
When these conditions co-occur with OCD, they can create unique experiences and challenges that require individualized support approaches.
Find Treatment for OCD in Nashville Today
Living with OCD – whether on its own or alongside other forms of neurodivergence – isn’t always easy. But understanding yourself better can be the first step toward a more fulfilling life.
At Arbor Wellness in Nashville, we see you as more than a diagnosis. We see your unique way of experiencing the world, and we’re here to help you thrive exactly as you are.
Our team understands that every brain works differently, and we’ll work with you to develop strategies that feel right for you. No one-size-fits-all approaches – just genuine support and understanding.
Call us at 629-217-2658 or learn more about our mental health treatment programs. Let’s talk about how we can support your unique path to wellness.
