Individuals with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) engage in repeated compulsive rituals such as counting items, hand washing and organizing. Executing these rituals provides temporary relief while they are being performed but the anxiety returns soon after they stop. An obsession with specific numbers that are considered “good” or “bad”.  A fear of being exposed to bacteria or viruses. A preoccupation with religious topics. A fear of getting sick or of losing a loved one to illness or injury. OCD is a highly destructive disorder that can overtake the life of an individual and keep him or her from enjoying many of life’s most rewarding activities. Twenty five percent of people who seek treatment for OCD also meet the criteria for a substance abuse disorder. Individuals who experience OCD symptoms for the first time in childhood or adolescence are more likely to develop a drug or alcohol problem, often as a way to cope with overwhelming anxiety and fear. Treating an addictive disorder without addressing the emotional symptoms of OCD is unlikely to be effective. Alcohol abuse is only a symptom of an underlying problem. In order to fully recover from both disorders, you need a Dual Diagnosis treatment program staffed by mental health and addiction professionals who understand the complex nature of OCD. Addiction itself is a compulsive condition, causing the repetitive pursuit of a destructive substance or behavior in spite of the negative consequences. OCD and alcohol addiction are a dangerous mix. Those who suffer from OCD experience high levels of fear in their daily lives. In order to cope with this anxiety, many turn to drugs or alcohol as a means of escape. This is where things get complicated. An individual who suffers from obsessive compulsive disorder is much more likely to see their alcohol abuse turn into a chemical dependence or addiction. A person suffering dual disorders liked OCD and alcoholism also suffers with liver problems. Denial that alcohol is causing their problem is another symptom of their disease. The definition of denial is the self-deception that prevents alcoholics from admitting to themselves or to others the destructive nature of their alcohol use. They prefer to say they have OCD and that is their problem – not the alcohol. Problem is, they have a dual disorder and I talked about this in my last column. All addictions are associated with a complex series of neurocircuits in the brain that fail to generate satisfactory amounts of a brain chemical known as Dopamine.  Dopamine is responsible for feelings of satisfaction (reward) and also reduces negative feelings. Dopamine is what alcoholics crave. When the neurocircuits are not allowing for a sufficient release of Dopamine, individuals may crave substances or pursue activities to lessen their negative feelings. Eventually something goes awry and the craving for that “dopamine rush” becomes insurmountable. For some people, the net result is compulsive behaviors and addictions to smoking, gambling, alcohol and food (sugar). How can this vicious cycle stop? Getting help is paramount or you are looking at a life of misery and possibly death. The quintessential first step in recovery is to admit there is a problem and help is needed. This usually means reaching a major low point (hitting rock bottom). Successful recovery usually involves completing some type of addiction program like Serenity by the Sea, a 3 to 5 day Boot Camp for women. People suffering from alcoholism generally eat poorly and overconsume refined sugar, junk food, fast food, caffeine and saturated fats. Their diets are uniformly rich in table sugar and relatively poor in vitamins and minerals. Their diet should contain about 40% carbohydrates, 30% protein and 30% fat. These proportions are similar to healthy diets of “hunter-gatherer populations”. The amino acid N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) is emerging as one of the most important supplements to support recovery. A leading theory of compulsive behavior is that the glutamatergic system within the brain is under functioning which increases cravings and compulsive behavior. Because NAC regulates the glutamatergic system in the brain, it satisfies the brain’s reward centres and reduces cravings and compulsive behavior.   The above statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease.