Managing OCD and Anxiety as Emerging Adults

Emerging adulthood is a crucial time developmental period. For individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or anxiety-related disorders, this period can prove especially challenging. The onset of new responsibilities, navigating one’s identity, and developing social roles can exacerbate preexisting OCD and anxiety-related symptoms. Adolescents who receive psycho- or pharmacotherapy for OCD or anxiety may experience barriers to maintaining and seeking treatment independently. Additionally, understanding the key role that familial relationships and family accommodation play different roles in the maintenance of related symptoms may provide insight into the engagement of appropriate treatments. Examining the nature of the emerging adulthood stage and how OCD/anxiety may interplay in individuals’ experiences can provide a better understanding on how to best approach psychotherapy.