OCPD and OCD are both mental health conditions. OCPD, or Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder, is a disorder characterized by a person's strict adherence to rules, orderliness, and perfectionism. People with OCPD also tend to be over-conscientious, rigidly organized, and preoccupied with details. They often have difficulty expressing emotions and may be overly controlling and judgmental of others.
OCD, or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, is an anxiety disorder characterized by intrusive thoughts and behaviors that a person feels compelled to perform. People with OCD often have recurring, unwanted thoughts or worries that lead them to perform certain rituals or routines, such as excessive hand-washing or checking locks multiple times. OCD is different from OCPD in that it is an anxiety-based disorder, while OCPD is a personality disorder.
Signs and Symptoms
OCPD:
• Perfectionism
• Excessive focus on details and rules
• Difficulty expressing emotions
• Rigid adherence to schedules and timelines
• Difficulty delegating tasks
• Overly critical of self and others
• Preoccupation with work and productivity
OCD:
• Recurring, intrusive thoughts or worries
• Compulsive behaviors or rituals, such as excessive hand-washing or checking locks
• Anxiety or distress when rituals are not performed
• Avoidance of certain situations due to fear of contamination or other triggers
Treatment
Both OCPD and OCD are treatable with therapy. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common form of therapy used to treat both disorders. CBT helps individuals to recognize and challenge their irrational thoughts and behavior patterns. Other forms of therapy, such as exposure and response prevention (ERP) and mindfulness-based approaches, may also be used. Medication may also be prescribed for individuals with OCD, but is not typically used to treat OCPD.
