ADHD and OCD: How They Interact

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder are two neuropsychiatric disorders that can have an effect on one another in an individual. To the untrained eye, the symptoms of ADHD and the symptoms of OCD may seem similar. However, there are important distinctions between the occurrence, diagnoses and treatment of these disorders. 

For example, ADHD is known as an externalizing disorder, in which it affects the way an individual is interacting with his or her environment; OCD is an internalizing disorder, in which an individual responds to an anxiety-producting surrounding by turning inward.1 Though ADHD and OCD enact different brain activity, the symptoms may be similar, particularly regarding “executive functions such as response inhibition, planning, task switching, working memory, and decision making.”2 Additional neurological tests and brain activation studies have shown “deficits in response inhibition common to both disorders.”3

While OCD and ADHD can exist simultaneously in one individual (comorbidity), this is not always the case, and for that reason, among many others, it’s important to ensure that you or your loved one are receiving high-quality compassionate clinical care and attention. AMFM Mental Health Treatment has over a decade of clinical and psychiatric experience treating these disorders, whether as singular diagnosis or comorbid disorders.

adhd and ocd

ADHD and OCD Comorbidity

Comorbidity of OCD and ADHD can worsen these symptoms, and studies have shown that in cases of comorbidity, “treating one without the other leads to poorer outcomes in both, while treating both simultaneously is associated with better outcomes.”4 

OCD Symptoms

Symptoms of OCD can include but are not limited to:

  • Obsessive thoughts
  • Compulsive behaviors
  • Intrusive thoughts‌
  • Compulsive symptoms
  • ‌Repetitive behaviors
  • Unwanted thoughts
  • Hand washing
  • Hoarding

ADHD Symptoms

Symptoms of ADHD and Adult ADHD can include but are not limited to:

  • Inattention‌
  • Distractibility‌
  • Fidgeting
  • Decision-making
  • Forgetfulness
  • Lack of impulse control
  • Impulsive behavior
  • Impulsivity‌
  • Poor time management
Comorbid ADHD and OCD are complicated, and require clinical care for a comprehensive and personalized treatment plan. However, it’s clear that treating one, can help the symptoms of the other. Recent studies have shown that “attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder-like inattention and distractibility decline following successful OCD treatment, regardless of modality (i.e., CBT-E/RP alone or in combination with SSRIs).”5

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Psychiatric Treatment for OCD and ADHD

Under a clinician’s care, a combination of psychiatry and psychotherapy treatment can help an individual suffering with OCD, ADHD, or both disorders. Psychiatric treatment studies have shown various results in the interactions between medication for comorbid ADHD and OCD, and some of these studies have found conflicting results. For example, stimulant treatment for ADHD may exacerbate OCD symptoms. However, on the other hand, “there are cases when stimulants can help treat OCD, especially if symptoms are triggered by inattentiveness and other ADHD symptoms. The same can apply to SSRIs [selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors] for OCD – when symptoms are in check, that tends to calm the ADHD.”6

All of this can be confusing and difficult for an individual who may be struggling with his or her mental health to navigate. With AMFM Mental Health Treatment, our clinical staff is trained to help with any antidepressant or stimulant medication management, so you or your loved one can focus on your mental health journey. If you’re ready to take the first steps toward mental health recovery and a higher quality of life, reach out to our friendly admissions staff today for a free assessment.

Inpatient Treatment for ADHD and OCD

Inpatient Treatment for ADHD and OCD refers to residential, or live-in mental health care programming in a facility. OCD treatment allows you or your loved one to engage in interpersonal therapy with licensed therapists and group therapy sessions, while healing in a safe and supportive environment. Inpatient mental health programming for anxiety usually also provides the highest level of care, with 24/7 clinical care, psychiatry and medication management, and personalized treatment plans for lasting well-being.

Outpatient Treatment for ADHD and OCD

Outpatient Treatment (IOP or PHP) programs offer comprehensive mental health care at a more flexible schedule, with both in-person and virtual options available. Unlike residential care, IOP ADHD treatment can offer online therapy and programming, but without 24/7 clinical teams on staff. Outpatient treatment plans still offer a combination of individual and group therapy, through a holistic approach, but in a less structured environment.

If you have been struggling with one or more of the symptoms we have mentioned, know that you’re not alone. A Mission For Michael Mental Health Treatment has admission counselors available around the clock to help determine which treatment options can assist you in managing your mental health. Contact us today to begin your confidential and free mental health assessment.

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I understand that I may be contacted by telephone, email, text message or mail regarding my disability benefit case options and that I may be called using automatic dialing equipment. Message and data rates may apply. My consent does not require purchase. Message frequency varies. Text HELP for help. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

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Types of Therapy and Counseling

ADHD and OCD can affect individuals differently, which often requires individual first-line treatment. There are a variety of treatment options that can be used to address the emotional, cognitive, and behavioral aspects of this condition. Some of the most common approaches used in counseling sessions include:

Group Therapy

Group therapy sessions can be used to help provide structured times to help you understand that you are not alone in your struggles, that your peers are also walking through these challenges, while also providing guidance, suggestions and communications from psychologists with specialized backgrounds. These groups can span a variety of backgrounds, including but not limited to art therapy, somatic therapy, and narrative therapy.7

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of therapy that’s focused on restructuring and reprogramming maladaptive and negative thought processes. Psychologists are trained to help you change your cognitive and emotional processes in order to outgrow coping mechanisms that may no longer be serving you.8 

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is most commonly referred to as “talk therapy,” and is designed to help process emotions. Qualified professionals offer psychological therapy to move forward with healthy ways of engaging in interpersonal relationships and alleviating physical and emotional distress.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)

EMDR Therapy is a renowned method of reprocessing most often used in trauma therapy. By activating the prefrontal cortex through a series of bilateral stimulation, qualified professionals can lead you through traumatic experiences, helping you to alleviate the distress symptomized by trauma.9

Crisis Intervention and Stabilization Services

A crisis is defined by the National Library of Medicine “as an overwhelming event, which can include divorce, violence, the passing of a loved one, or the discovery of a serious illness.”10  The goal of crisis intervention is to provide safety and reduce any potential harm to an individual undergoing a crisis.

Request A Call Back

"*" indicates required fields

By submitting this form you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy and give my express written consent for AMFM Healthcare to contact me at the number provided above, even if this number is a wireless number or if I am presently listed on a Do Not Call list.

I understand that I may be contacted by telephone, email, text message or mail regarding my disability benefit case options and that I may be called using automatic dialing equipment. Message and data rates may apply. My consent does not require purchase. Message frequency varies. Text HELP for help. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

Disclaimer

What to expect

Contact From Admission Representative:

Complete the form to receive a prompt call back from a member of our experienced and compassionate admissions staff. All communication is 100% confidential.

By submitting this form you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy and give my express written consent for AMFM Healthcare to contact me at the number provided above, even if this number is a wireless number or if I am presently listed on a Do Not Call list.

I understand that I may be contacted by telephone, email, text message or mail regarding my disability benefit case options and that I may be called using automatic dialing equipment. Message and data rates may apply. My consent does not require purchase. Message frequency varies. Text HELP for help. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

Disclaimer

Additional Mental Health Conditions for Treatment

AMFM Mental Health Treatment has extensive experience treating a variety of mental health disorders through evidence-based therapies, including but not limited to the following:

 

  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Depressive Disorders
  • Eating Disorders
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Mood Disorders
  • Personality Disorders
  • Psychosis 
  • Schizophrenia
  • Tourette’s
  • Panic Attacks

 

Recovery can feel isolating; mental health programming can provide cohesive treatment plans to help you or your loved one as you move forward.

Abramovitch, Amitai, and Andrew Mittelman. “OCD and ADHD Dual Diagnosis Misdiagnosis and the Cognitive ‘Cost’ of Obsessions.” International OCD Foundation, https://iocdf.org/expert-opinions/expert-opinion-ocd-and-adhd-dual-diagnosis-misdiagnosis-and-the-cognitive-cost-of-obsessions/. Accessed 11 April 2025.

​​Brem S, Grünblatt E, Drechsler R, Riederer P, Walitza S. The neurobiological link between OCD and ADHD. Atten Defic Hyperact Disord. 2014 Sep;6(3):175-202. doi: 10.1007/s12402-014-0146-x. Epub 2014 Jul 14. PMID: 25017045; PMCID: PMC4148591.

Cabarkapa S, King JA, Dowling N, Ng CH. Co-Morbid Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Neurobiological Commonalities and Treatment Implications. Front Psychiatry. 2019 Aug 13;10:557. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00557. PMID: 31456703; PMCID: PMC6700219.

Guzick AG, McNamara JPH, Reid AM, Balkhi AM, Storch EA, Murphy TK, Goodman WK, Bussing R, Geffken GR. The link between ADHD-like inattention and obsessions and compulsions during treatment of youth with OCD. J Obsessive Compuls Relat Disord. 2017 Jan;12:1-8. doi: 10.1016/j.jocrd.2016.11.004. Epub 2016 Nov 23. PMID: 28966908; PMCID: PMC5619255.

Roberto Olivardia, Ph. D. (2025b, March 19). When OCD and ADHD coexist: Symptom presentation, diagnosis, and treatment. ADDitude. https://www.additudemag.com/ocd-adhd-comorbid-symptoms-diagnosis-treatment/ 

“Psychotherapy: Understanding group therapy.” American Psychological Association, 31 October 2019, https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/group-therapy. Accessed 20 February 2025.

“APA Dictionary of Psychology.” APA Dictionary of Psychology, https://dictionary.apa.org/cognitive-behavior-therapy. Accessed 20 February 2025.

“What is EMDR?” EMDR Institute, https://www.emdr.com/what-is-emdr/. Accessed 20 February 2025.

MA, Carlberg K. “Crisis Intervention – StatPearls.” NCBI, 24 April 2023, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK559081/. Accessed 20 February 2025.