If you’re searching for therapy for eating disorders and OCD in Atlanta, Savannah, or anywhere in Georgia, understanding how these conditions interact can help you take the next step toward recovery.
Mental health disorders do not often present alone. They can co-exist with other disorders, resulting in overlapping effects that can generate unique or compounded symptoms. One common example is the connection between eating disorders and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
These two disorders often coexist at the same time, with many studies proving that people with eating disorders like anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder frequently display symptoms commonly associated with OCD, and similarly, those with OCD may display disordered eating behaviors. The co-occurrence of these disorders indicates an underlying psychological connection, highlighting the importance of understanding their relationship.
Why Do OCD and Eating Disorders Often Occur Together?
A common question people ask is, “Do I need therapy for OCD and an eating disorder?” If you’re experiencing obsessive thoughts about food, body image, or rituals around eating, it’s important to seek support.
Ritualized eating is a common symptom in individuals with eating disorders and/or OCD. They are driven by overwhelming, obsessive thoughts that find temporary relief through these rituals. In OCD, compulsive behaviors help reduce anxiety caused by obsessive thoughts; similarly, in eating disorders, strict rules and rituals about food and body image often provide a temporary feeling of relief or control. Understanding this connection can help create better treatment plans that address both OCD-like behaviors and eating disorder symptoms together.
Perfectionism is a personality trait that is common in individuals diagnosed with an eating disorder and/or OCD. In both conditions, there is a strong desire for control, which for many people roots from the desire to be perfect.
Anxiety about weight, appearance, and the food that is being consumed can cause an individual to create a strict routine or rituals that mirror OCD symptoms. This overlap suggests that traits like perfectionism (characterized by excessive self-criticism) and also neuroticism (a tendency to experience negative emotions) may increase a person’s vulnerability to these disorders. Recognizing this connection is important, as it can provide insight into the underlying causes and guide the development of more effective treatment strategies.
Impact Of Genetics
Genetics and how our brain works at a molecular level can also explain why eating disorders and OCD are connected. A study looked at gene activity in two parts of the brain in people with eating disorders, OCD, and people without these conditions. The study found that the changes in gene activity were very similar in people with eating disorders and OCD.
The study found 233 changed genes in one brain area and 816 in another. These gene changes affect how brain cells work, how hormones communicate, and how the body processes energy. The study revealed that the connection between these disorders is established in the molecular changes they both share. Knowing this can help doctors find better ways to treat people by targeting the biological causes behind both disorders.
How Can OCD Trigger Eating Disorders and Vice Versa?
People with OCD may develop food-related rituals because of their intrusive and obsessive thoughts. For example, in contamination OCD, a person fears that their food might be contaminated or unsafe to eat. They might rely on certain “safe” foods that they have eaten for a long time and feel comfortable with.
These individuals may avoid eating outside their home and refuse food offered by others, trusting only what they prepare themselves. This behavior can lead to severely limited food intake and may contribute to the development of conditions like Anorexia or Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID).
Individuals diagnosed with eating disorders might create rituals of their own regarding food. An example of a ritual that can take place with eating disorders is the cycle in bulimia, where individuals binge, and then, to relieve the anxiety about bingeing caused by the fear of gaining weight or the amount of calories consumed, they purge. These actions can then occur in other aspects of life that are non-food related.
Therapy for OCD and Eating Disorders in Atlanta or Savannah
When treating OCD or Eating Disorders, providers need to look for signs of the other. There are many treatment approaches to both disorders; however, some of the most common are Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
In CBT, providers will attempt to help the patient change their harmful thoughts. In OCD, providers might try to provide exposure therapy, in which individuals are exposed to what they fear (in a guided and progressive manner), but they are tasked to not complete their typical compulsions. In eating disorder treatment, the provider will guide the patient in tackling their harmful thoughts around food, body image, and self-worth. At our Atlanta therapy practice and Savannah therapy practice, we integrate both methods to treat co-occurring OCD and eating disorders in a personalized way.
Medication may also be used in both cases, especially since both OCD and eating disorders are connected to brain chemistry.
Common Questions:
Can One Therapist Treat Both OCD and an Eating Disorder?
Yes, and at Best Within You Therapy & Wellness our licensed Atlanta and Savannah therapists specialize in treating both OCD and eating disorders together. We understand how these conditions overlap and offer comprehensive care that addresses the root causes and behaviors of both disorders.
Is Therapy Effective for OCD and Disordered Eating?
Yes. Therapy is one of the most effective tools for long-term recovery from both OCD and eating disorders. Many clients report improved quality of life, reduced anxiety, and greater emotional regulation when working with a specialized therapist.
How do I find an OCD and eating disorder therapist near me?
You can look online, ask your doctor for referrals, or connect with a practice like Best Within You Therapy & Wellness. With offices in Atlanta and Savannah, and online therapy available across Georgia, we make specialized care accessible no matter where you are. We are known in our community as experts in eating disorder therapy, so if you are searching for an “OCD and eating disorder therapist near me” know that we are here to help you.
Meet With A Therapist for OCD and Eating Disorders
If you’re struggling with obsessive thoughts, eating rituals, or in cycles of stress or body dissatisfaction help is available. Our Atlanta-based therapists offer compassionate, expert care for clients facing OCD and eating disorders. We offer both in-person therapy in Atlanta and Savannah and online therapy throughout the United States. You can reach out to schedule an appointment or complimentary consultation.
Thank you to Best Within You Therapy & Wellness intern Jamie Rubin for this blog post about eating disorders and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and how they are connected. This blog post was peer reviewed by licensed psychologist, Dr. Rebecca Leslie.
