ASD and OCD, How common is having both?

McG said:

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.

B said:

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.

ArchaeC said:

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  

I can so relate to this, cheers

I hope you get answers soon and that you find out what you are dealing with. 

In my case, the therapy made me feel worse because I believed I should be stopping the repetitive behaviours and stims that the therapist thought were cause by OCD, yet the behaviours were giving me peace. 

I hope you get answers soon and that you find out what you are dealing with. 

In my case, the therapy made me feel worse because I believed I should be stopping the repetitive behaviours and stims that the therapist thought were cause by OCD, yet the behaviours were giving me peace. 

I can so relate to this, cheers