Living With OCD and Depression: How To Manage Both Conditions and Find Relief

Living with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and depression can be overwhelming. Each condition is challenging on its own, but together they can compound one another’s effects and significantly impact daily life. Individuals may experience intrusive thoughts and excessive worries from OCD, while depression colors your world-view with sorrow and despair, making it tough to see a way out or harbor hope for relief.

However, achieving lasting relief is possible with treatment that comprehensively treats both conditions concurrently. Here’s a look at the unique challenges of living with OCD and depression, along with evidence-based treatment methods that are proven to help.

What Is OCD?

In people with OCD, the connection between their thoughts and actions gets scrambled, leading to a constant loop of distressing ideas and habits that never seem to let up. If you have OCD, symptoms are typically categorized into two main types — obsessions and compulsions — that can significantly disrupt daily life and functioning:

• Obsessive symptoms: Intrusive, unwanted thoughts.
• Compulsive symptoms: Repetitive behaviors or rituals.

People living with OCD often experience intense anxiety and stress related to their obsessions, which can range from fears of contamination to concerns about harming others or themselves. They resort to comforting habits like obsessively washing their hands, or constantly checking and repeating mental mantras to soothe their frazzled nerves.

For example, someone with OCD might have an obsessive fear of leaving the stove on, leading to compulsive checking behaviors where they repeatedly return home to ensure the stove is off. They can easily lose half a day to this cycle, starving their productivity, relationships, and hobbies of the attention they deserve.

Finding Relief: Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and TMS Therapy for OCD

What Is Depression?

Depression profoundly affects an individual’s mood, cognition, behavior, motivation, and entire outlook on life. It’s classified as a mood disorder marked by depressive symptoms, including:

• Persistent feelings of sadness, loneliness, and hopelessness.
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities — otherwise known as anhedonia.
• Changes in sleep patterns, appetite, and energy levels.
• Difficulty concentrating and making decisions.
• Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
• In severe cases, thoughts of suicide or death.

Depression can manifest differently in individuals, requiring treatment approaches to be tailored to individual needs and symptoms. Some struggling with depression might experience primarily emotional symptoms, while others may have more physical manifestations, such as chronic pain or fatigue. For instance, a person living with depression might find it challenging to get out of bed in the morning, struggle to focus at work, and withdraw from social activities they once enjoyed.

Services We Offer: Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and TMS Therapy for Depression

The Link Between OCD and Depression

Co-occurring conditions can spell trouble, and that’s certainly the case here — the intertwined nature of these two issues can seriously hinder the healing process. Living with OCD and depression is more common than many people realize. Recent research has provided significant insights into the comorbidity of OCD and depression, revealing important connections between these two disorders.

• Between 60% to 80% of people with OCD will experience some form of depression in their lifetime.¹
• About two-thirds of individuals with OCD will have at least one major depressive episode.¹
• While those with OCD are more likely to develop depression, in some cases, people with depression can develop OCD, and in many cases, they have them at the same time.

Related: Best Medication for OCD and Anxiety

Factors Contributing To Comorbidity

Several factors contribute to the high comorbidity of OCD and depression. Here’s a look at some that may contributing to your diagnosis.

Biochemical changes

A delicate balance of brain chemistry is disrupted in both disorders, causing serotonin levels to fluctuate. Serotonin dysregulation has a dual role, meaning it fuels both OCD and depression. This shared neurochemical basis explains why certain medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can be effective in treating both OCD and depression at the same time.

Behavioral changes

OCD behaviors can lead to isolation and feelings of helplessness, contributing to depression. For example, someone who spends hours each day performing compulsive rituals may struggle to maintain relationships or hold down a job, leading to feelings of loneliness and worthlessness.

Negative obsessions

Individuals with disturbing or negative obsessions are more prone to developing depression. These may include:

• Fears of harming loved ones.
• Intrusive, unwanted thoughts of a sexual or violent nature.
• Obsessions related to religious or moral scrupulosity.

Stress of managing OCD symptoms

There’s a delicate balance between managing obsessions and giving in to compulsions. When that balance tips, the aftermath can feel devastating, fueling feelings of hopelessness and despair that often morph into full-blown depression. Managing symptoms often requires OCD medication and can be an extremely challenging and energy-consuming task, leaving people feeling like they’re running on empty.

Genetic factors

There may be shared genetic vulnerabilities that predispose individuals to both OCD and depression. Having a relative with one or both conditions puts you at greater risk of being diagnosed with them too.

Environmental triggers

Stressful life events or trauma can exacerbate both OCD and depressive symptoms, creating a cycle where symptoms of one condition worsen the other.

Related: Understanding the Impact of Untreated Depression

The Experience of Living With OCD and Depression

Individuals diagnosed with both OCD and depression often experience a persistent and interconnected pattern of symptoms that can be challenging to manage. The intrusive thoughts and compulsions of OCD can drain emotional and physical energy, leading to feelings of hopelessness and despair, characteristic of depression. Conversely, the lack of motivation and negative self-talk associated with depression can make it even more challenging to resist OCD compulsions or engage in treatment.

Consider the case of Sarah, a college student diagnosed with depression and OCD. Sarah’s OCD manifests as contamination fears, resulting in excessive hand washing and avoidance behaviors related to perceived sources of contamination. This compulsive behavior leads to missed obligations and social engagements, which in turn exacerbates her depressive symptoms.

As her depression intensifies, Sarah experiences a significant decrease in self-esteem and motivation, making it increasingly difficult to manage her OCD symptoms or seek appropriate treatment. This cyclical pattern reinforces both conditions, potentially impacting various aspects of her life, including interpersonal relationships, daily routines, and long-term aspirations.

Related: Understanding OCD vs Anxiety

Strategies for Living With OCD and Depression

Managing both conditions simultaneously requires a comprehensive and multifaceted approach. Mastering life with OCD and depression requires clever strategies — here are some winning approaches to help you cope.

Seek professional help

Work with mental health professionals experienced in treating both OCD and depression. This team might include a mix of mental health experts — psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, or psychiatric nurse practitioners — who can develop a treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

CBT is a type of therapy that can be used for OCD and is a pragmatic method for acknowledging and defeating negative thought cycles. This evidence-based approach helps individuals identify and modify maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors and empowers individuals to overcome debilitating behaviors and rebalance their thinking for a healthier, happier existence. For OCD, a specific type of therapy called exposure and response prevention (ERP) incorporates CBT principles and is particularly effective by gradually encouraging patients to face feared situations without engaging in compulsive behaviors.

Medication management

Some types of psychiatric medications, such as SSRIs and Lexapro, can help manage symptoms of both OCD and depression. Work closely with a psychiatrist so they can properly perform medication management to find the right prescription and dosage for your specific needs.

Related: Lexapro for OCD

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy

TMS therapy is FDA-approved for the treatment of depression and OCD. TMS works by decreasing symptoms of depression and OCD by modulating neural activity and reinforcing triggering neurotransmitter release to help restore the brain’s natural balance.

According to Nick Triviso, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) for Neuro Wellness Spa in South Torrance, “TMS can be a valuable option for individuals with OCD and depression whose symptoms have not fully improved with medications alone.”

Mindfulness and relaxation techniques

Practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation can help manage persistent anxiety associated with OCD and improve mood. Day in, day out, practicing self-awareness chips away at the power of your emotions and thoughts, placing you in the driver’s seat.

Establish a routine

Creating a structured daily routine can provide a sense of control and purpose, which is beneficial for both OCD and depression. Include time for self-care, work or study, social interactions, and relaxation.

Physical exercise

Research has shown that regular physical activity can positively impact symptoms of both OCD and depression.² It is recommended to engage in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise on most days of the week. Examples of moderate-intensity exercise include cycling, swimming, yoga, or walking, which can provide both physical and mental health benefits.

Healthy sleep habits

Both OCD and depression can significantly disrupt sleep patterns. Implementing good sleep hygiene practices is crucial and includes:

• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends.
• Create a relaxing pre-sleep routine to signal the body it’s time to wind down.
• Optimize the sleep environment: ensure the bedroom is dark, quiet, and at a comfortable temperature.
• Consider using blackout curtains, white noise machines, or appropriate bedding to enhance sleep quality.

Nutrition

A balanced diet plays a vital role in supporting mental health and a healthy gut microbiome. Proper dietary practices include:

• Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
• Ensure adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been associated with improved mood.
• Limit consumption of caffeine and alcohol, as these substances can exacerbate depressive and anxiety symptoms.

Social support

Connecting with others living with OCD and depression can provide valuable support and coping strategies. Surround yourself with people who understand what you’re going through by joining a support group, either online or in person.

Psychoeducation

Understanding as much as you can about both conditions can help you get to the root of OCD and depression so you can pinpoint trouble spots and develop workable plans to tackle them head-on.

Journaling

Keep a journal to track your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. What’s hindering your progress? Work on uncovering the root causes, crack the code of your habits, and watch yourself grow with each passing day.

Set realistic goals

Break larger tasks into smaller, manageable steps. It’s okay to go slow and gently celebrate the little wins as you move forward — they’re the building blocks of a stronger, wiser you.

Practice self-compassion

The dual challenge of OCD and depression requires a great deal of patience, understanding, and kindness, so make sure to direct some of that compassion towards yourself. Recognize that recovery is a process and that setbacks are a normal part of the journey.

Related: Holistic Treatments for Depression

Challenges and Opportunities in Treating OCD and Depression

Treating co-occurring OCD and depression can be challenging, as improvements in one condition don’t always lead to improvements in the other. While the comorbidity of OCD and depression presents significant challenges, it also offers an opportunity for integrated treatment approaches like a combination of TMS therapy and medications or TMS and psychotherapy that address both conditions simultaneously, potentially leading to more comprehensive improvements in overall mental health.

Some individuals may find that as their OCD symptoms improve through ERP therapy, their mood also lifts. Others may need to address depressive symptoms first to have the energy and motivation to engage fully in OCD treatment. The best way to get ahead is to work one-on-one with a mental health professional, building a personalized strategy that takes on each condition separately.

Related: Exploring the Types of OCD

The Role of Family and Friends

Support from loved ones can be crucial for individuals living with OCD and depression. If someone close to you is struggling with both conditions, there are things you can do to lend a hand, including:

• Educate yourself about both conditions.
• Offer emotional support without judgment.
• Encourage treatment adherence.
• Help create a supportive home environment.
• Be patient and understanding during setbacks.
• Recognize and celebrate progress, no matter how small.
• Learn productive things to say to support someone with OCD and depression.

Related: Am I Depressed of Lazy?

How Neuro Wellness Spa Can Provide Treatment for Those Living With OCD and Depression

Living with comorbid OCD and depression presents significant challenges, but with appropriate treatment, support, and self-management strategies, individuals can effectively manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Neuro Wellness Spa offers comprehensive treatment for both OCD and depression. Our expert team of mental health experts provides integrated care through in-person or online psychiatry, TMS therapy, and evidence-based psychotherapy tailored to address the unique challenges of OCD and depression. Contact us today to learn how we can help you manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

References

1. Altintas, E., & Taskintuna, N. (2015). Factors Associated with Depression in Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A Cross-Sectional Study. Nöro Psikiyatri Arşivi, 52(4), 346–353. https://doi.org/10.5152/npa.2015.7657

2. Anderson, E., & Shivakumar, G. (2013). Effects of exercise and physical activity on anxiety. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 4. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2013.00027