Navigating the Complexities of OCD and Eating Disorders: Insights from Our Podcast Discussion
People often think OCD is about being neat, organized, or having quirky habits. And that compulsions are visible - washing their hand or turning the light on/off a certain number of times. Maybe you’ve even uttered the phrase, “I’m so OCD!” in reference to the cleanliness of your space. It makes sense - OCD is often discussed in detail, and the media depictions of OCD are pretty narrow.
Why This Conversation Matters
We’ve talked about OCD on the blog before, but we just released a podcast episode with therapist Lauren Harding, LCSW, talking all about OCD and some of the nuances that are often missed.
The reality of OCD is much more than we are often taught. OCD is really about intrusive, unwanted thoughts and the anxiety-driven behaviors people use to try to feel safe from them. And many people experience OCD almost entirely in their head through mental checking and reassurance-seeking, also called Pure-O. This conversation is so important because of the significant overlap OCD has with eating disorders, including repetitive behaviors, rigid rules, and attempts to reduce anxiety or feel safe.
OCD & Eating Disorders Podcast Key Takeaways
Recovery isn’t the absence of thoughts
Instead, it’s learning to tolerate and hold space for the discomfort. Your ability to sit with discomfort is one of the most important psychological muscles you can build!
Discomfort isn’t dangerous
It might feel dangerous in your body and your brain. Part of understanding and working with your OCD is teaching your brain that you can tolerate the discomfort AND manage whatever negative effects might happen.
Self-trust as a treatment target
The more you sit in the discomfort, use skills and tools to manage your distress and work with your parts, the more you are going to build self-trust.
Treating EDs and OCD
It’s important to treat the ED first. Normalize eating so your brain can think clearly, then do exposure in a careful, smart way that doesn’t feed the ED, and build tolerance for uncertainty and flexibility
Who This Episode Is For
People living with OCD
People navigating eating disorder recovery
Clinicians supporting clients with OCD/ED overlap
Loved ones wanting a clearer understanding of OCD and the intersection with eating disorders
As mentioned, we have an OCD overview post on the blog already. If you’re looking for a more foundational overview of OCD, you can start here: OCD & EDs
Moving Forward
Just like eating disorders, working with and managing your OCD can be quite difficult. It’s okay to feel uncertain about recovery, but we encourage you to practice curiosity and compassion over judgment whenever possible. If you or someone you love needs support in their recovery journey, please reach out to a CCN clinician today!
