Is ADHD Tied to OCD?

PostedOctober 13, 2025

UpdatedOctober 13, 2025

ByMy Patient Advice

Author: Avery Lombardi, MSc | Reviewed by: Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Yes, there is an ADHD OCD link, as the two conditions often overlap, leading to challenges in diagnosis and treatment. While ADHD and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) are distinct conditions, they share some common traits, such as difficulties with attention, impulse control, and anxiety. Understanding the relationship between ADHD and OCD is important for individuals who may experience symptoms of both disorders.

How ADHD and OCD Overlap

Here’s how ADHD and OCD might overlap:

Obsessive-Compulsive Traits

Individuals with ADHD may exhibit some obsessive-compulsive traits, such as repetitive thoughts or behaviours, but these symptoms are typically linked to their struggles with focus and organisation. In contrast, OCD involves persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and compulsive behaviours performed to reduce anxiety.

Attention and Focus Issues

Both conditions involve difficulties with attention and focus. In ADHD, inattention is primarily related to an inability to sustain focus or follow through on tasks. In OCD, difficulty focusing can occur due to the mind being preoccupied with intrusive thoughts. The ADHD OCD link can make it difficult to distinguish between the two, as both may involve distractibility and mental preoccupation.

Anxiety and Compulsive Behaviours

Anxiety is a key feature in OCD, with individuals feeling compelled to perform specific actions to alleviate distress. People with ADHD may also experience anxiety, especially when struggling to meet expectations or stay organised, but their behaviours tend to be more impulsive rather than compulsive.

In conclusion, the ADHD OCD link highlights the importance of comprehensive assessment and treatment. Addressing both conditions requires a tailored approach, combining therapy, medication, and coping strategies to manage symptoms effectively.

Visit providers like ADHD Certify for personal consultations and expert guidance tailored to your unique situation.

For a deeper dive into the science, diagnosis, and full treatment landscape, read our complete guide to Signs, Symptoms, and Self-identification of ADHD.

Avery Lombardi, MSc

Author

Avery Lombardi is a clinical psychologist with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. She has professional experience in psychological assessment, evidence-based therapy, and research, working with both child and adult populations. Avery has provided clinical services in hospital, educational, and community settings, delivering interventions such as CBT, DBT, and tailored treatment plans for conditions including anxiety, depression, and developmental disorders. She has also contributed to research on self-stigma, self-esteem, and medication adherence in psychotic patients, and has created educational content on ADHD, treatment options, and daily coping strategies.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the author's privacy.

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez, MBBS

Reviewer

Dr. Rebecca Fernandez is a UK-trained physician with an MBBS and experience in general surgery, cardiology, internal medicine, gynecology, intensive care, and emergency medicine. She has managed critically ill patients, stabilised acute trauma cases, and provided comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care. In psychiatry, Dr. Fernandez has worked with psychotic, mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, applying evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ACT, and mindfulness-based therapies. Her skills span patient assessment, treatment planning, and the integration of digital health solutions to support mental well-being.

All qualifications and professional experience stated above are authentic and verified by our editorial team. However, pseudonym and image likeness are used to protect the reviewer's privacy.