OCD and Alcohol: Understanding the Connection and Finding Help

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by recurrent uncontrollable thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). Alcohol use disorder (AUD) (commonly called alcoholism) is an unhealthy pattern of drinking characterized by a preoccupation with alcohol and difficulty controlling alcohol consumption despite negative effects on health and other aspects of your life. There is a complex, bidirectional relationship between these two mental health disorders−obsessive compulsive disorder and alcoholism. Researchers have found that people living with OCD are more likely to develop alcohol use disorder (AUD) and that drinking alcohol can make OCD symptoms worse. Please continue reading to understand the connection between OCD and alcoholism. We will also give you information on how to find help for these mental health conditions from a health care professional specializing in dual diagnosis.

What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

Definition and Symptoms of OCD

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic mental health condition characterized by two core features: obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are intrusive, unwanted thoughts that cause significant anxiety. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors performed to temporarily relieve that anxiety.

The International OCD Foundation estimates that 1 in 40 adults in the United States lives with OCD. Symptoms typically begin during adolescence or early adulthood.

Core Features That Define OCD

Obsessions are intrusive thoughts you cannot control. Common examples include fear of contamination, fear of harming others, need for symmetry, or forbidden sexual or religious thoughts. These thoughts are persistent and distressing.

Compulsions are rituals performed to reduce anxiety. Examples include excessive handwashing, checking locks repeatedly, counting objects, arranging items in precise order, or silent prayer. Performing these rituals provides only temporary relief.

OCD differs from preferences or habits. The key distinction: OCD behaviors are time-consuming (typically over one hour daily), cause significant distress, and interfere with normal functioning. Simply preferring organization does not constitute OCD.

How OCD Affects Daily Functioning

OCD symptoms can consume several hours each day. This time burden disrupts work performance, academic achievement, and personal relationships.

People with severe OCD may develop avoidance behaviors. For example, someone with contamination fears might stop eating at restaurants, attending social events, or leaving home entirely.

Research published in the Journal of Anxiety Disorders found that untreated OCD significantly reduces quality of life across multiple domains including social functioning, emotional well-being, and occupational performance.

Risk Factors for OCD

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is generally diagnosed during adolescence or early adulthood. The exact causes are unknown, but risk factors for this mental health condition include:

• Genetics: If someone in your family has been diagnosed with OCD, you may be at an increased risk of developing this mental illness.
• Biological changes in the brain: People with OCD have both structural changes in the frontal cortex and subcortical regions as well as chemical changes in serotonin levels. The frontal cortex and subcortical region control emotions and behavior. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a critical role in regulating mood.
• Temperament: Studies have found that people who are more reserved, prone to negative thinking, and experience anxiety and depression during childhood are more likely to develop obsessive-compulsive disorder.
• Environmental factors: Research suggests that the development of OCD is linked to childhood stressors and trauma such as physical or sexual abuse.

Common Misconceptions About OCD

Myth: Being neat or organized means you have OCD.
Reality: Preferring cleanliness is a personality trait. OCD involves distressing intrusive thoughts and time-consuming rituals that impair daily functioning.

Myth: People with OCD just need to relax.
Reality: OCD is a neurobiological disorder requiring professional treatment. Cognitive behavioral therapy and medication are evidence-based interventions—not simply “relaxing more.”

Myth: OCD makes you “crazy” or unable to function.
Reality: With appropriate treatment, people with OCD lead productive, fulfilling lives. Many high-functioning individuals manage OCD successfully with therapy and medication.

What is Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)?

Alcohol use disorder (AUD), commonly called alcoholism or alcohol addiction, is a medical condition involving inability to control drinking despite negative consequences. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism estimates 14.5 million Americans ages 12 and older had AUD in 2019.

Defining Characteristics of AUD

Tolerance develops over time. You need increasing amounts of alcohol to achieve the same effects. What once caused intoxication no longer produces the same feeling.

Withdrawal symptoms occur when drinking stops. Physical symptoms include sweating, tremors, nausea, anxiety, and in severe cases seizures or delirium tremens. These symptoms drive continued drinking to avoid discomfort.

Loss of control becomes evident. Unsuccessful attempts to cut down, spending excessive time obtaining or recovering from alcohol, and continuing use despite harm all indicate AUD.

Key Symptoms of Alcohol Use Disorder

The DSM-5 diagnostic criteria identify 11 symptoms. Meeting 2-3 criteria indicates mild AUD, 4-5 indicates moderate, and 6 or more indicates severe AUD.

Primary symptoms include:

• Drinking more or longer than intended
• Persistent desire or failed attempts to cut down
• Significant time spent obtaining, using, or recovering from alcohol
• Strong cravings or urges to drink
• Failure to fulfill major obligations at work, school, or home
• Continued use despite relationship problems
• Giving up important activities to drink
• Recurrent use in physically hazardous situations
• Continued use despite knowledge of physical or psychological harm
• Tolerance requiring increased amounts
• Withdrawal symptoms when drinking stops

Risk Factors for Alcohol Misuse or Alcoholism

People of all ages, genders, and ethnicities can develop alcohol use disorder (AUD). However, some people are at higher risk than others. Risk factors for AUD include:

• Genetics: People with a family history of alcohol use disorder are at a higher risk of developing this mental health condition themselves.
• Drinking patterns: Starting drinking at an early age (before age 15) is linked to a 5 times higher risk of developing alcohol addiction later in life. In addition, drinking patterns such as heavy drinking and binge drinking are risk factors for alcoholism.
• Mental health problems: Anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, and other mental health conditions are linked to a higher risk of developing an alcohol use disorder.
• Environmental factors: People who have experienced emotional trauma or other stressful life events are at a higher risk of AUD.
• Social and cultural factors: Easy access to alcohol and peer pressure in young people can play a role in developing alcohol dependence. Hanging out with people who drink excessively or having a partner to drinks regularly can increase the risk of developing alcohol addiction.

The Connection Between OCD and Alcohol: Does Alcohol Make OCD Symptoms Worse?

Research suggests that obsessive compulsive disorder and alcoholism can influence each other. Having one of these mental health conditions increases the risk of developing the other. In addition, AUD can worsen OCD symptoms and OCD can worsen AUD symptoms. Scientists believe the links between OCD and alcoholism can be explained in part by the fact that alcohol addiction and OCD share certain similarities and have overlapping effects. Both alcohol addiction and obsessive-compulsive disorder are characterized by unwanted thoughts or preoccupations and impulsivity. OCD and substance use disorders (SUD) are also characterized by repetitive behaviors and compulsivity and a lack of control over urges. Additionally, people with both SUD and OCD have neurological dysregulation (structural and functional changes in their brains).

Why Individuals with OCD May Turn to Alcohol 

The self-medication hypothesis explains initial use. People with OCD may discover alcohol temporarily reduces intrusive thoughts and anxiety. This immediate relief reinforces drinking behavior. Alcohol acts as a central nervous system depressant. It lowers inhibitions and dulls emotional responses. For someone struggling with obsessive fears, this temporary numbness feels like relief.

Short-term relief creates a dangerous pattern. Initial experiences with alcohol-induced calm encourage repeated use. The person learns to associate drinking with symptom reduction. However, this relief is temporary and counterproductive. As alcohol leaves the system, anxiety rebounds – often more intensely than before drinking.

The Cycle of OCD and Alcohol Use 

As noted, people with OCD might use alcohol for its symptom-relieving effects. Alcohol leads to an increase of serotonin activity in the brain, but these effects of alcohol are short-lived. As a result, there can be temporary relief in OCD symptoms after alcohol consumption, but the OCD symptoms return, and are often worse, when the effects of alcohol wear off. Over time, repeated alcohol use can lead to worsened OCD symptoms even when you are not drinking. Additionally, some people with OCD can develop anxiety related to their behaviors and actions while under the influence of alcohol. This can lead to the development of additional obsessions and compulsions related to alcohol consumption.

How Alcohol Affects OCD Symptoms

Short-Term Effects of Alcohol on OCD Symptoms 

As mentioned above, alcohol use can provide an initial, temporary relief in OCD symptoms by dulling the mind, reducing inhibitions, and lowering anxiety levels. These effects of alcohol can provide a quick but temporary fix for the symptoms of OCD. However, when alcohol intoxication wears off, certain symptoms, such as anxiety, can be markedly worse. As a result, alcohol withdrawal can cause OCD symptoms to surge. The connection between OCD and alcoholism can be explained by the fact that alcohol affects almost every system in the body, including the brain. It is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, meaning alcohol changes the levels of chemical messengers in the CNS and reduces brain activity. Impairment in thinking and decision-making abilities can start after just one alcoholic drink. Research has shown that alcohol consumption also affects mood, behavior, impulse control, and judgment.

Long-Term Effects of Alcohol on OCD 

Drinking alcohol repeatedly to obtain relief from OCD symptoms can lead to worsening obsessions and compulsions over time. When alcohol leaves the system, it causes the central nervous system (CNS) to go into overdrive. This can make mood symptoms more intense and worsen OCD symptoms during alcohol withdrawal. Frequent, heavy, or prolonged drinking can cause structural changes and damage to the brain, which may be permanent. Another long-term effect of regular alcohol use for OCD relief is that it can increase your risk of developing alcohol addiction or AUD. In some people, alcohol itself can become an obsession, and drinking can become a compulsion. For example, a person may find that drinking three beers was helpful in calming intrusive or obsessive thoughts. This can compel the person to drink three beers every time they feel overwhelmed by their obsessions. Over time, drinking three beers every day can become a compulsion, with escalating anxiety if the person doesn’t drink exactly three beers. This can put the person at serious health risks, including a risk of alcohol use disorder and worsening OCD.

Co-Occurring Disorders OCD and AUD: Is There a Link Between OCD and Alcohol Abuse?

Prevalence of Co-Occurring OCD and AUD

Researchers have found strong links between obsessive compulsive disorder and alcoholism. For example, people with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) have an approximately five times higher risk of developing alcohol use disorders (AUD) compared to the general population. Various studies have shown that 24-40% of people with OCD have clinically significant substance use disorders, with alcohol being the most commonly abused substance. Studies have also found that among people seeking treatment for OCD, those who also have alcohol use disorder tend to have more severe symptoms of OCD, increased suicidal risk, and poorer treatment outcomes. Additionally, studies have shown that people living with OCD are at a nearly four times higher risk of poor substance abuse outcomes, such as addiction, criminal convictions, and even death.

Potential Risks for People with OCD and Excessive Drinking

Some of the risks of excessive alcohol consumption in people living with OCD include:

• Decreased ability to resist urges to drink.
• Increased risk of engaging in compulsive drinking behaviors.
• Higher risk of developing alcohol use disorder.
• Worsening mood, behavior, and anxiety symptoms due to chemical imbalances in the brain related to concurrent OCD and alcoholism.
• Possible irreversible brain damage.
• Interactions between prescribed medications for OCD and alcohol.
• Risky behaviors due to impaired thinking, decision-making, problem-solving, and reasoning abilities.
• Risk of accidents due to impairments in motor functioning, coordination, and balance.
• Challenges in diagnosis and recovery from alcohol addiction.

Challenges in Diagnosing Co-Occurring Disorders

Identifying and treating OCD and AUD together requires specialized expertise.

Symptom Overlap Complicates Assessment

Both conditions involve compulsive behavior. Distinguishing OCD compulsions from compulsive drinking can be difficult. Drinking itself may become ritualized in someone with OCD.

Anxiety is central to both. Alcohol withdrawal causes severe anxiety. OCD causes chronic anxiety. Determining which condition primarily drives anxiety symptoms requires careful evaluation.

Depression frequently co-occurs with both. More than 50% of people with OCD also experience major depression. Depression and AUD are deeply intertwined. Untangling these relationships requires comprehensive assessment.

Why Integrated Treatment Is Essential

Treating only one condition allows the other to sabotage recovery. If you address alcohol use but leave OCD untreated, obsessive thoughts and anxiety may trigger relapse. If you treat OCD but ignore drinking, alcohol will undermine therapy effectiveness.

Withdrawal from alcohol can trigger OCD resurgence. Quitting drinking causes chemical changes that may worsen previously controlled compulsions. Without proper support, this can derail recovery from both conditions.

Co-occurring disorders interact unpredictably. Depression, anxiety disorders, and PTSD often accompany OCD and AUD. These additional conditions create complexity requiring specialized dual-diagnosis expertise.

Research in The American Journal of Psychiatry demonstrates that integrated treatment—addressing both OCD and AUD simultaneously—produces significantly better outcomes than treating conditions sequentially.

Finding Dual-Diagnosis Specialists

Not all treatment providers have dual-diagnosis training. Standard addiction treatment programs may not adequately address OCD. Traditional mental health providers may lack expertise in addiction medicine.

Specialized facilities offer integrated approaches. Programs like those at Discover Recovery provide comprehensive assessment and treatment for co-occurring OCD and AUD under one roof.

Evidence-based protocols exist. Treatments combining cognitive behavioral therapy, exposure and response prevention, medication management, and addiction counseling have proven effectiveness for dual diagnosis.

Overview of Effective Treatments for OCD 

Psychotherapy for OCD

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that can help people with obsessive-compulsive disorder. This type of psychotherapy helps you identify harmful thinking patterns and their association with unhealthy behaviors. In people with OCD, cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) helps to break the links between uncontrollable obsessive thoughts and compulsive or ritualistic behaviors. During therapy sessions, you learn to avoid ritualizing in response to obsessions and instead manage anxiety related in more healthy ways. Exposure and response prevention (ERP) therapy is a type of CBT. It involves gradual desensitization to things that are obsessions and a cause of anxiety. For example, slow exposure over time to dirt in people with a fear of contamination to reduce anxiety caused by exposure to dirt. The therapist will also teach you ways to prevent rituals such as compulsive hand-washing. Over time, people with OCD can enjoy an improved quality of life after undergoing ERP under the guidance of a trained therapist.

Medications for OCD

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are first-line medications. These antidepressants help correct serotonin imbalances in the brain that contribute to OCD.

FDA-approved SSRIs for OCD include:

• Fluoxetine (Prozac)
• Sertraline (Zoloft)
• Paroxetine (Paxil)
• Fluvoxamine (Luvox)

Clomipramine is an alternative for treatment-resistant cases. This tricyclic antidepressant is effective but has more side effects than SSRIs.

Medication requires patience. Therapeutic effects typically take 10-12 weeks to emerge fully. Doses for OCD are often higher than those used for depression.

Overview of Effective Treatments for AUD 

Effective AUD treatment addresses physical dependence, psychological factors, and environmental triggers.

Medically Supervised Detoxification

Detox must occur under medical supervision for safety. Alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening, particularly for people with history of heavy or prolonged drinking.

Dangerous withdrawal symptoms include seizures and delirium tremens. These medical emergencies require immediate intervention. Attempting to quit “cold turkey” at home without medical support is dangerous.

Medications manage withdrawal symptoms. Benzodiazepines like diazepam or lorazepam are typically used to prevent seizures and reduce anxiety during detox. Thiamine supplementation prevents neurological complications.

Detox duration varies by individual. Acute withdrawal typically lasts 5-7 days, though some symptoms persist for weeks. Medical teams adjust treatment based on symptom severity.

Inpatient vs. Outpatient Rehabilitation

Inpatient treatment provides 24/7 support. Residential programs like those at Discover Recovery offer intensive treatment including medical monitoring, therapy, and medication management in a controlled environment.

Inpatient care is especially beneficial for dual diagnosis. People with co-occurring OCD and AUD benefit from comprehensive mental health services, addiction counseling, and medical care in one location.

Outpatient treatment allows continued daily functioning. For mild to moderate AUD with stable OCD, outpatient programs permit you to live at home and maintain work or school while receiving treatment several times weekly.

Research favors inpatient treatment for better outcomes. Studies show residential programs typically achieve higher abstinence rates, especially for severe AUD or when multiple conditions co-occur.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Alcohol Addiction

CBT for addiction addresses drinking-related thoughts and behaviors. This evidence-based approach helps identify triggers, challenge distorted thinking about alcohol, and develop refusal skills.

CBT is effective for both OCD and AUD. This makes it an ideal therapeutic modality for people with co-occurring conditions. The same therapist can address both issues using related techniques.

Relapse prevention is a core component. You learn to identify high-risk situations, develop coping strategies, and create action plans for potential relapse scenarios.

Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder

Three FDA-approved medications help maintain abstinence:

Naltrexone blocks euphoric effects of alcohol. By preventing the “reward” feeling, naltrexone reduces cravings and makes relapse less likely. Available as daily pills or monthly injection (Vivitrol).

Acamprosate reduces cravings and supports abstinence. This medication helps restore normal brain chemistry disrupted by chronic drinking. It’s particularly effective for maintaining long-term sobriety.

Disulfiram creates unpleasant reactions to alcohol. If you drink while taking disulfiram, you experience severe nausea, flushing, and rapid heartbeat. This deterrent effect discourages drinking.

Your doctor will recommend medication based on individual factors including severity of AUD, co-occurring conditions, and treatment goals.

Support Groups and Peer Recovery

Alcoholics Anonymous uses the 12-step program. AA provides free, widely available peer support meetings worldwide. The spiritual component doesn’t appeal to everyone but helps many people maintain sobriety.

SMART Recovery offers a science-based alternative. This program uses cognitive-behavioral techniques and doesn’t require belief in higher power. Meetings focus on self-empowerment and practical skills.

Double Trouble in Recovery addresses dual diagnosis. This support group specifically serves people with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders, making it ideal for those with OCD and AUD.

Peer support complements professional treatment. Research shows people who attend support groups in addition to formal treatment have better long-term outcomes than those using professional treatment alone.

OCD and Alcoholism Risk: Can People with OCD Drink Alcohol?

If you have received a diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and are receiving treatment for this mental health condition, does it mean you should not have even an occasional drink? In other words, does the link between OCD and alcohol use disorder (AUD) mean you should strictly avoid alcohol? There is no single right answer to this question. Alcohol is not strictly off-limits for most people with OCD. Many people with OCD can safely drink alcohol occasionally and in moderation. However, the decision to consume alcohol as someone living with OCD must be made with the awareness that alcohol affects your brain differently than those who don’t have OCD. Ultimately, choosing to drink if you have an OCD diagnosis is a personal decision. It is a decision you should make together with your mental health and medical professionals. An important first step is to learn about abnormal drinking patterns. There are common misconceptions about what is “normal” or “social” alcohol consumption. Become aware of what constitutes moderate drinking and what are the warning signs of a drinking problem. The National Institute on Alcohol and Alcoholism is a good resource to learn about the definitions and descriptions of moderate drinking, binge drinking, and heavy drinking. Tips for Safe Drinking in People with OCD As noted, people with OCD are at higher risk for developing an alcohol addiction. Therefore, you should exercise caution when consuming alcohol, especially if you have risk factors for alcoholism, such as a personal or family history of alcohol abuse. Here are some steps for cautious and responsible alcohol use for people with OCD:

• Identify triggers for drinking and avoid them. For example, if you find you are drinking alcohol to manage OCD symptoms or anxiety, stop and talk to your mental health provider. Your provider can teach you healthier ways to cope with OCD, such as physical exercise, journaling, meditation, or reaching out to your support system.
• Be vigilant for signs of alcohol abuse and addiction. As a person living with OCD, it’s especially important for you to monitor your drinking habits. Cut back if you notice signs of tolerance (needing more alcohol to get the same effects) or withdrawal (experiencing uncomfortable symptoms when you don’t have access to alcohol).
• Avoid unhealthy drinking patterns. Heavy drinking and binge drinking are risk factors for alcohol use disorder (AUD) and other serious health risks.
• Drink within healthy limits. Do not use alcohol to self-medicate for OCD symptoms. Talk to your mental health professional about what is a safe level of drinking for you and stick to the recommendations.
• Practice controlling urges. Both OCD and AUD are linked to increased impulsivity and compulsions. Put the coping strategies you learn during psychotherapy sessions into practice. Over time, you will find it easier to allow an impulse to pass and feel more in control of your thoughts and behaviors.
• Talk to your healthcare provider about interactions. Drug-alcohol interactions can increase the risk of severe side effects and put you at risk of serious, even life-threatening health complications. If you are taking medications for OCD, talk to your healthcare provider about whether it is safe for you to drink and how much you can drink.

Strategies for Managing OCD Without Alcohol Consumption

Healthy Coping Mechanisms for People with OCD

Instead of turning to alcohol to self-medicate, here are some healthy ways to manage OCD symptoms:

• Mindfulness and relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety associated with OCD triggers.
• Structured routines and healthy habits such as physical exercise and hobbies that don’t involve drinking alcohol.
• Leaning on social support from loved ones, especially if you are trying to cut back on alcohol.
• Peer support groups for people in alcohol recovery where you can share your experiences and goals and learn from others who have undergone struggles with alcohol.
• Professional help and psychotherapy to manage OCD symptoms.

Getting Help for OCD and Alcohol Use Disorder

How to Seek Professional Help for OCD and Alcoholism

Where to Find Help for Co-Occurring OCD and Alcohol Use Disorder

If you or someone you know struggles with both OCD and problematic drinking, specialized treatment is available.

Professional Assessment and Treatment

Discover Recovery Treatment Center offers comprehensive dual-diagnosis care in Washington. Licensed therapists provide evidence-based treatments including CBT, ERP, and addiction counseling specifically designed for co-occurring conditions.

Call Discover Recovery to schedule a comprehensive assessment. The intake team will evaluate your OCD symptoms, drinking patterns, and any co-occurring conditions to develop a personalized treatment plan.

National Resources and Helplines

SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-4357
Free, confidential support 24/7 for substance use and mental health concerns. Provides treatment referrals and information about local resources.

National Institute of Mental Health
Comprehensive information about OCD including symptoms, treatment options, and current research. Offers resources for finding mental health providers.

International OCD Foundation
Patient education, treatment provider directory, support group listings, and advocacy resources specifically for obsessive-compulsive disorder.

National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism
Evidence-based information about alcohol use disorder, treatment options, and prevention strategies.

Support Groups

Alcoholics Anonymous
Free peer support meetings worldwide using the 12-step program. Find local meetings and online options.

SMART Recovery
Science-based alternative to 12-step programs. Uses cognitive-behavioral techniques for addiction recovery.

Double Trouble in Recovery
Support group specifically for people with co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders.

Women for Sobriety
Support program designed specifically for women in recovery from alcohol and substance use.

Key Takeaways on the Links Between Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and Alcoholism

Many people who suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) turn to alcohol or other types of substance misuse as a reprieve from the fears and anxieties of OCD. However, while alcohol can provide a temporary feeling of calm, improved mood, and respite from intrusive thoughts or compulsive behaviors, the relief is short-lived and ultimately leads to worsening OCD symptoms and alcohol use disorder. The complicated relationship between OCD and alcohol means that seeking a proper diagnosis and integrated treatment plan for both conditions, OCD and alcoholism, is vital. At Discover Recovery, we specialize in treating dual diagnosis patients and offer evidence-based treatments for both OCD and alcoholism which are proven to be effective. Call us today to find out how you or your loved one with OCD and alcoholism can benefit from our programs and effective treatment plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a link between OCD and alcohol abuse?

Yes, people with OCD are five times more likely to develop alcohol use disorder than the general population. The connection stems from using alcohol to self-medicate anxiety and intrusive thoughts. However, while alcohol temporarily reduces symptoms, it worsens OCD over time and creates risk of addiction.

Does drinking make OCD worse?

Yes, especially with regular or heavy use. Alcohol initially may reduce anxiety but causes rebound symptoms during withdrawal that are more severe than baseline. Chronic drinking damages brain regions involved in OCD, interferes with medications, and makes treatment less effective. The short-term relief creates a harmful long-term pattern.

Can people with OCD drink alcohol at all?

People with OCD can drink alcohol cautiously if they follow safety guidelines: avoid using it to cope with symptoms, stay within recommended limits, never mix with medications without doctor approval, and monitor for warning signs of problematic use. However, some people find alcohol consistently worsens their OCD and should abstain completely.

What is the 15-minute rule for OCD?

The 15-minute rule is a technique to delay compulsive behaviors. When you feel an urge to perform a ritual, set a timer for 15 minutes and practice anxiety management techniques before responding. This breaks the automatic obsession-compulsion link and teaches you that anxiety decreases naturally without rituals.

Why do people with OCD turn to alcohol?

People with OCD may use alcohol to self-medicate because it temporarily reduces anxiety and intrusive thoughts. Alcohol lowers inhibitions and dulls emotional responses, providing brief relief from obsessions. However, this creates a dangerous cycle—symptoms worsen during withdrawal, driving continued drinking and increasing addiction risk.

Can you treat OCD and alcohol addiction at the same time?

Yes, and this integrated approach is most effective. Treating both conditions simultaneously prevents each disorder from undermining treatment for the other. Specialized dual-diagnosis programs address how OCD and AUD interact in your specific situation, coordinate medication management, and provide comprehensive therapy for both conditions.