OCD and addiction are two specific disorders that can have a significant impact on a teen’s life. They are separate, but they often co-occur, and this presents a unique challenge for diagnosis and treatment. On this page, we will examine the relationship between OCD and addiction in adolescents and the treatment that is available at the Massachusetts Center for Adolescent Wellness.
Understanding OCD and Addiction in Adolescents
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health issue with symptoms such as unwanted ideas, thoughts, or sensations (obsessions) that compel people to perform repetitive behaviors (compulsions). Typically, the compulsions are an attempt to decrease the anxiety caused by the obsessions.What are Common Obsessions in Teens?
- Contamination–fear of germs, dirt, or illness
- Order and symmetry–a need for things to be arranged in a certain way
- Harm–fear of harming themself or others, or fear of bad things occurring
- Uncertainty and doubts–ongoing doubts about actions performed, such as locking a door or turning off the stove
What are Common Compulsions in Teens?
- Cleaning and washing–excessive showering, handwashing, or cleaning objects
- Checking–checking locks, appliances, or written work repeatedly
- Ordering and arranging–arranging objects symmetrically or in a certain pattern
- Counting–performing specific tasks a certain number of times
- Repeating phrases or words–repeating specific words or phrases to neutralize thoughts
Understanding Addiction in Teens
SUD in teens is a chronic, relapsing brain disease typified by compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful results. It may involve a variety of substances, including alcohol, marijuana, prescription drugs, and illicit drugs.
Signs of Addiction in Teens
- Behavior changes–sudden mood swings, lying, secretiveness
- Decline in academic performance–grades drop, absenteeism increases
- Social isolation–withdrawal from friends and family, loss of interest in hobbies
- Physical symptoms–changes in appearance, appetite, and sleep patterns
- Financial problems–stealing, unexplained need for money
Why OCD and Substance Use Often Co-Occur
Adolescents with OCD have a greater risk of developing substance use disorders. This is often because of several factors:
Impulsivity
Some types of OCD, especially those with impulsive features, might increase susceptibility to participating in risky behaviors associated with substance use.
Self-Medication
Some teens use substances to temporarily relieve the anxiety and distress caused by their obsessions and compulsions. Alcohol or marijuana might be used to subdue intrusive thoughts or to relax after a wearying cycle of compulsions.
Social Factors
Problems coping with social situations because of OCD symptoms can lead to substance use as a way to fit in with peers or feel more comfortable.
Neurobiological Factors
There may be shared genetic predispositions or neurobiological pathways that increase the susceptibility to both conditions.
Risk Factors for Co-Occurrence
Several factors increase the likelihood of a teen developing both conditions.
- Family history–a history of either OCD or SUD in the family
- Trauma–living with trauma or chronic stress
- Early onset OCD–developing OCD symptoms at a young age
- Lack of coping skills–insufficient healthy coping skills for anxiety and stress
- Other mental health conditions–Co-occurring anxiety disorders, depression, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
The Importance of Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Dual diagnosis treatment is essential because it focuses on the complicated interactions between SUDs and mental health conditions. This contributes to a more effective and lasting recovery. By treating both conditions simultaneously, individuals learn to manage symptoms, develop coping mechanisms, and minimize the risk of relapse. Here’s why dual diagnosis treatment is so important:
- It addresses the root causes of addiction
Many people with mental health conditions rely on substances to self-medicate or cope with their symptoms. Dual diagnosis (DD) treatment helps people recognize and attend to the underlying mental health conditions that contributed to the substance use. This leads to a more sustainable recovery. - Better treatment outcomes
By focusing on both conditions, dual diagnosis treatment can lead to more positive treatment outcomes. This includes reduced symptoms, better coping skills, and a lower risk of relapse. - Lower risk of relapse
If only one condition is treated, the individual is more likely to relapse. DD treatment helps people develop coping strategies and relapse prevention plans that include both conditions. - Prevents future difficulties
This treatment can also help prevent future mental health issues and SUDs by giving people the tools and knowledge to manage their conditions effectively. - Increases motivation to recover
Seeing positive results from DD treatment can increase motivation and encourage people to continue working on their recovery goals.
Levels of Care for Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Dual diagnosis treatment uses a continuum of care, going from intensive inpatient or residential services to less intensive outpatient programs. The level of care is tailored to the individual’s needs, while considering factors like the severity of symptoms, ability to function, and stage of change.
Inpatient/Residential Treatment
This is the highest level of care. It includes 24-hour medical supervision and structured therapeutic activities in a treatment facility. This is great for people who need intensive support and a safe environment due to an unsafe or unstable home environment.
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Sometimes called a day program, PHPs offer the same structured treatment as an inpatient program, but individuals can go home each evening.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
IOPs require fewer treatment hours per week than PHPs. This program is appropriate for people who need specialized therapy, but are still able to manage daily responsibilities.
Aftercare/Outpatient Program (OP)
This is the least intensive program. In an OP, the individual attends regular therapy sessions to help them manage their conditions with less intensive support. Continuing support helps decrease the chance of relapse.
Our Approach to Treating OCD and Addiction in Teens
At Massachusetts Center for Adolescent Wellness, we understand the importance of recognizing and addressing issues while individuals are still young. Early intervention is crucial for both addiction and OCD. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances for long-term recovery for adolescents. Getting treatment early helps prevent the conditions from becoming more severe and decreases the likelihood of long-term consequences.
Support for Families
We know that families have a vital part in the recovery process. Addiction and mental health issues affect every member of the family in one way or another. Educating the entire family about OCD and addiction, participating in family therapy, and providing a supportive environment are critical for a teen’s successful recovery. Family members can also benefit by reaching out to support groups for themselves.
Our medical and mental health professionals have years of experience in addiction medicine and effective evidence-based therapy techniques. Understanding the complex interaction between OCD and addiction in teens is necessary for providing comprehensive care and support. Through integrated treatment and support systems, adolescents can go on to lead fulfilling lives and achieve their life and recovery goals.
Is Your Teen Struggling with OCD and Addiction?
If you live in Massachusetts and you have a teen struggling with OCD and addiction, Massachusetts Center for Adolescent Wellness can provide you and your child with a program designed to meet your specific needs. Our levels of care include:
- Day Treatment (PHP)
This is our highest level of care. It compares in intensity to a residential program, but your teen will be able to return home to you every day. However, we do not cut any corners, providing your child the most complete treatment possible, including behavioral therapies, medication, and group and individual counseling.
- Afterschool Outpatient (IOP)
This program is tailored to fit into your teen’s life seamlessly while providing an intense level of care for kids who may not have severe issues or have completed a higher level of care.
- Aftercare
Our aftercare program helps reinforce the skills and lessons learned during the initial treatment programs. This ongoing care helps teens maintain abstinence and OCD strategies as they transition into everyday life.
- Alumni Program
This program is meant to support and engage adolescents who have gone through recovery and are adjusting to life after rehab treatment. The alumni program provides important services such as support groups, individual counseling, family therapy, and recreational activities. The main goal of this program is to prevent relapse by providing tools to help kids stay sober and building a feeling of community.
- LGBTQ Treatment Program
MCAW understands that adolescence is challenging enough, but it can be more difficult for young LGBTQ teens. Having a community around that teens can share with and receive support from peers goes a long way towards a successful treatment outcome.
Our specialized LGBTQ treatment program is designed to provide a safe, affirming environment where teens can explore their identities and receive comprehensive care.