ASD and OCD, How common is having both?

Hey all,

I am currently being assessed for the ASD and have been told I am to be assessed for OCD.

I was wondering how common is it to have both, as I feel I do have both, but I am slightly confused as I feel they kinda counter act against the other, giving me the feeling that I could have either, neither... or both?

I read a great quote which sums it up for me well I think.

'Autism is my Colosseum, OCD is the Lion'

Any Thoughts?

Thanks all

Parents
  • I am slightly confused as I feel they kinda counter act against the other, giving me the feeling that I could have either, neither... or both?

    The distinction is explained well here:

    https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/mental-health/ocd

    'However, there is an important difference between the two. Obsessions and compulsions for people with OCD are distressing and unwanted, whereas repetitive behaviours for autistic people, such as stimming and intense interests, are often positive, soothing and purposeful.'

    I haven't been diagnosed with OCD but I have had it since a young child.

  • Obsessions and compulsions for people with OCD are distressing and unwanted, whereas repetitive behaviours for autistic people, such as stimming and intense interests, are often positive, soothing and purposeful.'

    That’s the key distinction that was glossed over when I was misdiagnosed with OCD years ago, even though I said at the time I enjoyed doing the behaviours.

  • That’s the key distinction that was glossed over when I was misdiagnosed with OCD years ago, even though I said at the time I enjoyed doing the behaviours.

    I wonder if that is related to a newer view of what autism is these days than in the past so a correct diagnosis wasn't made which (hopefully) might be made now Thinking 

  • I also went through NHS CBT for anxiety and also Exposure Response Prevention which is used to treat OCD, but my therapist could not give me an OCD diagnosis, nor did she seem to pick up on the Autism as that wasn't discussed.

    I suppose the therapy acted as a treatment for the here and now and how one navigates themselves without actually knowing what the underlying issue really is.

  • Thanks B. 

    As it was for many, finding home was finding peace. hut

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