Some people consider obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) a form of neurodivergence — but it depends on your definition of neurodiversity.
The term “neurodivergent” is typically used to describe people whose cognitive, developmental, or intellectual abilities differ from what’s considered typical or “ neurotypical .” For example, autistic people are commonly recognized as neurodivergent.
Neurodivergence is part of a broader concept called neurodiversity, which recognizes and values the wide range of neurological differences that exist in the human population.
Neurodiversity refers to the full spectrum of neurological differences, including both neurotypical and neurodivergent people. Neurodivergence specifically refers to people who have atypical neurological patterns. Atypical, in this context, refers to less common, unusual, or distinctive.
OCD may involve atypical neurological processing, which means it could fit into the definition of neurodivergence. However, the use of the term in relation to OCD is still a subject of ongoing discussion in both clinical and neurodiversity advocacy communities.
Do doctors categorize people with OCD as neurodivergent?
From a clinical perspective, there’s no universal agreement on whether OCD should be categorized as a neurodivergent condition.
Research from 2019 highlights the neurological foundations of OCD. Neurological refers to the brain and nervous system.
People with OCD often show differences in their brain structure and function — in other words, their brains look and work differently compared to other people. This has led some clinicians and researchers to consider OCD a form of neurodivergence.
But the question of whether OCD is a neurodivergence isn’t just a medical question, but a philosophical one.
Whether OCD is a neurodivergence depends on your definition of “neurodivergence.” If you define neurodivergence as encompassing any condition involving atypical neurological processing, then OCD could be included.
What mental health conditions are considered neurodivergent?
While the neurodiversity movement initially focused on autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it has expanded to include other conditions that involve atypical neurological development or functioning.
The following conditions are currently recognized as neurodivergent:
Some clinicians and advocates also consider conditions like OCD, anxiety disorders , and mood disorders within the broader scope of neurodivergence, although this is less universally accepted.
Learn more about the link between OCD and anxiety .
Can someone have OCD and other forms of neurodivergence?
Yes, it is possible for someone to have OCD, along with other forms of neurodivergence. When someone has two or more conditions at the same time, the conditions are said to be “co-occurring.”
For example, OCD frequently co-occurs with Asperger’s syndrome , which falls within the autism spectrum. One study suggests that about 25% of children with OCD also receive a diagnosis of ASD, and 5% of autistic children receive an OCD diagnosis.
OCD can also co-occur with other types of neurodivergence, including ADHD, Tourette syndrome, and dyspraxia.
Sometimes, the symptoms of OCD may mimic symptoms or characteristics of other forms of neurodivergence (and vice versa).
Although it’s possible to have OCD and a co-occurring condition, it’s also possible for a condition to be misdiagnosed as something else.
For example, an autistic person may engage in stimming (self-stimulating behaviors like repeating phrases, clapping their hands, or flapping their arms) as a coping mechanism. To some clinicians, this may look like compulsions, which are common symptoms of OCD.
A correct diagnosis can help you get the treatment and support you need. If you feel that you were misdiagnosed and you need a second opinion, it’s OK to ask for one.
Takeaway
Whether people with OCD are considered neurodivergent is still a matter of debate, but there’s a growing recognition that OCD involves atypical neurological processes that can align with the broader concept of neurodivergence.
The inclusion of OCD in the neurodivergent spectrum is increasingly considered, especially as we learn more about the brain’s role in OCD symptoms.
If you think you may have OCD or another form of neurodivergence, consider speaking with a therapist or other healthcare professional.
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