May 31
In this episode of ADHD for Smart Ass Women, Tracy talks about ADHD and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and why she took such an interest in this episode. Tracy starts by mentioning the connection between OCD and repetitive body focused behaviors (RBFBs) and then discusses what they are.
Tracy shares what OCD is, what obsessions and compulsions are, what compulsions are, the conditions that make up the OCD Spectrum, what OCD is not, what Pure Obsession is, at what age does OCD typically show up, where ADHD and OCD look very different, where ADHD and OCD look similar, what those with OCD are most concerned about, the role that executive functions play in both ADHD and OCD, how hoarding plays into ADHD and OCD, how OCD is best treated, what Exposure Response Prevention is, the reasons why ADHD with OCD is often misdiagnosed, and Do I Have OCD?.
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"I am no different than you are. I just think it's part of my ADHD. And I will also offer that I wouldn't give it up because it's that part of my ADHD brain that causes me to over deliver right?"
- Tracy Otsuka
"I have said this for a while now that those who are the most successful with their ADHD are women, because I work with women, right? Are women who either don't have major trauma or have addressed it and big and had a bit of OCD? Anxiety? This makes so much sense to me."
- Tracy Otsuka
"I've always wondered how could I be so impulsive in some of my decision making but so cautious and others? How can I be such a risk taker in some areas and such a risk avoider and others? Now I have an idea how It's my brain. I'm ADHD and I'm probably on the OCD spectrum."
- Tracy Otsuka
- Tracy has been researching ADHD and OCD and found that she may be on the OCD spectrum herself.
- Tracy struggles with biting and picking at her skin, particularly her nails, as a way to cope with anxiety and focus.
- Tracy discusses OCD compulsions, including hoarding, collecting, and repetitive body-focused behaviors, as well as mental acts like praying or repeating words.
[19:01 - 31:08] ADHD and OCD: Similarities and Differences
- Tracy discusses the high comorbidity of ADHD and OCD, noting that they often share common genetic risk factors and overlapping symptoms.
- The therapist explains that OCD symptoms can be exacerbated by stimulant medication, and that treating OCD first is crucial before reintroducing stimulants to avoid worsening symptoms.
- Tracy emphasizes the importance of working with medical professionals who have experience treating patients with comorbid ADHD and OCD to ensure nothing is missed in the diagnosis and treatment process.
- Tracy shares personal experiences with her own OCD and ADHD, including struggles with inattention and obsessive thoughts, and the importance of understanding the differences between hyperfocus and overfocus.
- Research suggests that OCD and ADHD may fall on a compulsive impulsive continuum, with individuals exhibiting both impulsive and careful behaviors.
- Tracy shares her experience with ADHD and how it affects her daily life, including difficulty with focus and organization.
