Understanding OCD, Mental Health, and Autism: What Families Should Know

When a child is diagnosed with autism, families often focus on therapy, school supports, and communication goals. But what sometimes gets overlooked is the role of mental health conditions that can occur alongside autism, including Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD).

Research shows that children and teens on the autism spectrum are more likely than their peers to experience anxiety, depression, and OCD. Recognizing the signs early and getting the right support can make a big difference in your child’s daily life.

Autism and OCD: What’s the Difference?

Because Autism and OCD can sometimes look similar, it’s important to understand where they overlap and where they don’t.

• Autism Repetitive Behaviors: Many individuals with autism enjoy routines, patterns, or repetitive actions (like hand-flapping, lining up toys, or watching the same video repeatedly). These behaviors are usually comforting, enjoyable, or a way of processing the world.

• OCD Compulsions: In OCD, repetitive behaviors are often unwanted, stressful, and performed to reduce anxiety or prevent something “bad” from happening (like repeated handwashing to avoid germs).

The key difference is autism behaviors often bring comfort. OCD behaviors are driven by fear or distress.

 

Why Mental Health Matters in Autism

Children and teens with Autism may have difficulty expressing emotions or worries verbally. That means signs of OCD, or other related mental health difficulties might show up through behavior instead. Supporting your child's mental health isn’t separate from autism therapy, but rather part of the whole picture.

We encourage you to watch for:

• Sudden changes in routines or new rituals that cause distress if interrupted.

• Repetitive thoughts your child seems “stuck” on (e.g., fear of germs, numbers, or certain events).

• Withdrawal from activities they once enjoyed.

• Increased irritability, sleep problems, or changes in appetite.

How ABA and Mental Health Supports Work Together

At R&R Collaborative Therapy Services, we recognize that autism and mental health challenges can overlap. That’s why our team focuses not only on skill-building but also on supporting emotional well-being. We work closely with your dedicated mental health professional should your child be already diagnosed with OCD as a part of a coordinated care plan. If OCD has not been identified before, we offer support and guidance on referring to the relevant healthcare professionals. 

Here’s how we help:

• Individualized Goals: Therapy plans can include strategies for managing anxiety and OCD-like behaviors.

• Collaboration with Mental Health Providers: We work closely with psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors when needed, so your child’s care is connected and consistent.

• Parent Training: We equip families with tools to recognize signs of anxiety or OCD and respond in supportive ways at home.

• Positive Coping Skills: Sessions may include teaching calming strategies, flexibility training, and ways to handle unexpected changes.

Tips for Parents Supporting a Child with Autism + OCD

1. Validate, don’t dismiss - Even if fears seem “small,” they feel very real to your child.

2. Keep routines, but practice flexibility - Predictability helps, but small, supported changes can build resilience.

3. Model calm coping - Children often mirror caregiver responses to stress.

4. Use visuals - Visual schedules or checklists can reduce anxiety about what’s coming next.

5. Reach out for help. If OCD or mental health challenges are interfering with daily life, we recommend connecting with your child’s therapy team or a mental health professional.

Autism is unique in every child, and so is mental health. Recognizing signs of OCD or other mental health challenges early can help your child feel more confident, capable, and supported.

At R&R Collaborative Therapy Services, we’re here to walk alongside you, whether it’s supporting daily skills through ABA, partnering with mental health providers, or helping your family navigate challenges together.