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Is OCD a Mood Disorder?

Writer's picture: Jason  GaldoJason Galdo

Is OCD a Mood Disorder?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, is a term many have heard, but it’s often misunderstood. While some people might think OCD is a mood disorder, it actually falls into a different category. Let’s explore what OCD really is, why it isn’t a mood disorder, and how it affects people.

What is OCD?

OCD is a mental health condition that causes people to experience obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Obsessions are persistent, unwanted thoughts that create anxiety. Compulsions are actions people feel driven to perform in response to these thoughts, usually to ease their anxiety. For example, someone might constantly worry about germs (obsession) and wash their hands repeatedly to feel safe (compulsion).

Why Isn’t OCD a Mood Disorder?

Mood disorders are mental health conditions primarily focused on emotional states, like happiness or sadness. Common mood disorders include depression and bipolar disorder, which influence overall mood. OCD, on the other hand, doesn’t directly impact a person’s mood. Instead, it deals with thoughts and behaviors. This difference is key to understanding why OCD is not classified as a mood disorder.

OCD falls under the category of anxiety disorders. People with OCD experience intense anxiety from their obsessions, which leads to repetitive actions. While someone with a mood disorder might have severe mood swings, someone with OCD has a more stable mood but suffers from high levels of anxiety.

Similarities Between OCD and Mood Disorders

Despite these differences, OCD and mood disorders can seem similar. Here are some reasons why:

  1. Anxiety and Depression: It’s common for people with OCD to also experience mood disorders like depression. Constant worry and repetitive behaviors can drain energy and affect overall mood, making depression more likely.

  2. Impact on Daily Life: Both OCD and mood disorders can disrupt daily life. Whether it’s staying up late due to compulsions or feeling too low to get out of bed, people with either condition may struggle with routine activities.

  3. Coexisting Conditions: It’s not unusual for someone to have both OCD and a mood disorder. This situation is called comorbidity, and it can make treatment a bit more challenging.

Treatment for OCD and Mood Disorders

Though OCD and mood disorders are different, they can sometimes be treated in similar ways:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This type of therapy is effective for both conditions. For OCD, a specialized form called Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is used. In ERP, people gradually face their fears without performing their compulsions, which can reduce their anxiety over time.

  • Medications: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are often prescribed for both OCD and mood disorders. These medications help balance brain chemicals that affect mood and anxiety.

How to Support Someone with OCD

If you know someone with OCD, your support can make a big difference. Here’s how you can help:

  • Be Patient: Understand that their compulsions aren’t something they can easily control. Offer patience and compassion instead of judgment.

  • Learn More: Educate yourself about OCD. The more you understand, the better you can support them.

  • Encourage Treatment: Sometimes people are hesitant to seek help, but with your encouragement, they may feel more comfortable pursuing therapy or medication.


While OCD is not a mood disorder, it shares some similarities with conditions like depression and bipolar disorder. Understanding these differences and similarities can help reduce misunderstandings about mental health. With proper support and treatment, people with OCD can lead fulfilling lives.


If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health issues, please give us a call today at 833-479-0797.

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