Last reviewed:
Jul 20th 2023
M.A., LPCC
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is marked by symptoms that can be disturbing and disruptive for affected individuals in their daily lives.
Sufferers are afflicted by obsessive thoughts, which cause distress. The obsessive thoughts are then accompanied by repeated behaviors that people with OCD feel compelled to enact. [1] These compulsive behaviors are typically performed to alleviate anxiety and provide comfort.
Tics are sudden, recurring, involuntary spasms which can take the form of both actions and words. [1] Whilst there is a correlation between OCD and tic disorders, such as Tourette’s disorder, it is not necessarily a causal one. [1] This is described in more detail below.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and tic disorders are two distinct conditions, but they can sometimes coexist or occur together in individuals. While OCD does not directly cause tics, there are some overlapping features between the two mental health disorders.
OCD is characterized by intrusive and distressing thoughts (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to alleviate anxiety or prevent feared outcomes.
Tics, on the other hand, are sudden, involuntary, repetitive movements or vocalizations. Tics can be motor (e.g., eye blinking, head jerking or jumping) or verbal (e.g., shouting, swearing, grunting or throat clearing).
However, some individuals with OCD may also experience tics as a comorbid condition. This co-occurrence is known as Tourettic OCD or, in certain studies, ‘tic-related OCD’. In these cases, individuals may exhibit both the characteristic obsessions and compulsions of OCD as well as tics. [2]
Previous studies show that people adjudged to have ‘tic-related OCD’ do not have increased OCD severity or worsened functioning than other people with OCD. [2] Data also indicates that tic-related OCD is highly hereditary and predisposed towards males. [2]
It's important to note that the relationship between OCD and tics is complex and not fully understood, with more research required to establish definitive links. However, there is substantial evidence that OCD and tics overlap in ways which indicate a very close relationship. [1] Roughly 60% of Tourette’s disorder sufferers, a condition where a person exhibits repeated tics, show OCD symptoms and 50% of children with OCD demonstrate a history of tics. [1]
If you or someone you know is experiencing tic-like symptoms in association with OCD, it is essential to seek professional help. Here are some signs that indicate it may be time to seek assistance for OCD-related tic disorders:
Effective treatment for OCD-related tic disorders involved a combination of methods, including therapies, medication and lifestyle changes. These include:
Resources:
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