Control is the central theme for people with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD). But as similar as they may seem, these are two separate health conditions with distinct differences. When comparing OCD and OCPD, consider how true obsessions and compulsions work, how the person feels about their intrusive thoughts and behaviors, and the signs and symptoms of each condition.

Lightfully is a clinical treatment provider that specializes in evidence-based, human-centered mental health care. In this article, we’ll explore the key characteristics of OCD and OCPD and how you can tell the difference.

1. The type of mental health disorder

Your personality is made up of deep-rooted patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving that shape the way you make sense of the world and yourself. These distinguishing traits are influenced by your genetics, environment, personal experiences and other factors, and they’re usually adaptable. If you have a mental health disorder, it doesn’t necessarily mean you have a personality disorder.

A personality disorder is a type of mental health condition where a person displays disruptive or problematic patterns of thinking, behaving, mood and other traits. These patterns can make it difficult for a person to relate to other people, perceive reality accurately, engage in society and cope with change. Currently, there are 10 types of personality disorders — each with different symptoms — and OCPD is one of them.

2. The key drivers behind OCD and OCPD

OCPD is a personality disorder defined by strict perfectionism, organization and control. People with OCPD hold rigid beliefs about how things should be done, and they’re usually not flexible enough to compromise with other people on those beliefs. Also, they often don’t recognize that their behavior is a problem, even when it interferes with their life and relationships. 

OCD is characterized by specific obsessions that are hard to control and cause anxiety, driving a person to act on repetitive behaviors for relief. These thoughts and behaviors can interfere with everyday life, cause emotional distress and affect social interactions. People with OCD typically want to alleviate their symptoms.

3. The common symptoms of each disorder

For people with OCD, their intrusive thoughts, ideas or urges are obsessions that they often recognize as illogical. For instance, you might have a fear of contamination or dirt, a need for order and symmetry, or a hard time dealing with uncertainty. Here are a few examples of how these obsessions might translate to certain behaviors (compulsions):

• Excessively washing your hands to the point of skin irritation
• Arranging the items on your coffee table in a very particular way
• Repeatedly checking the locks and doors before leaving the house
• Ritually doing certain tasks a specified number of times

OCPD is defined by a true need to remain in control. People with this condition may engage in repeated behaviors and rigid routines, but their personality traits aren’t motivated by the same overwhelming thoughts and compulsions. For example, someone with OCPD may:

• Focus on rules, lists, order and details 
• Restrict or restrain their emotions
• Strictly adhere to the rules
• Have a hard time empathizing with others
• Be extremely dedicated to their work, even at the expense of their hobbies and relationships
• Act overly careful about avoiding failure
• Find working with others difficult
• Fixate on a single idea, task or belief

4. The treatment options for OCD and OCPD

Psychotherapy is a primary treatment for OCD. Common types include cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Several medications are also available to help treat this disorder.

Currently, there isn’t an FDA-approved medication available for personality disorders, so OCPD is usually treated with psychotherapy. However, a provider may prescribe medication that treats some of your symptoms or a coexisting condition, like depression or anxiety.

Receive expert mental health treatment at Lightfully

Mental health disorders can interfere with multiple areas of your life, but they don’t have to define who you are as a person. If you or a loved one is struggling with OCD, OCPD or another issue, don’t wait to ask for help. At Lightfully, we believe whole-person care is key. Our licensed professionals can diagnose your condition, help you learn more about it and offer personalized solutions to help you move forward. 

Lightfully is a clinical mental health treatment provider where everyone is seen, heard and valued, and we’re deeply passionate about our work and our clients. Our Precision Care Model (PCM) is a carefully curated selection of treatment interventions centered around four core mental health drivers: emotions, thoughts, relationships and behaviors. Take the first step with us.

When you’re ready for personalized support, we’re here to help. Get in touch with our Admissions Concierge Team to begin your journey toward the fullest, brightest version of you.