Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Children: A Guide for Parents
What is OCD?
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is characterised by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviours (compulsions) that individuals feel compelled to perform. It can be particularly challenging for children, affecting their everyday life and causing significant distress. As a parent, understanding
OCD, recognising its symptoms in your child, and knowing how to seek psychological support are crucial steps towards helping them.
OCD affects about 1-2% of the global population, including children and adolescents. It manifests through a cycle of obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions areunwanted, distressing thoughts, images, or urges that repeatedly enter the mind. Common obsessions include fears of contamination, harming others, or making mistakes. Compulsions are behaviours or mental acts that individuals perform to reduce the anxiety caused by obsessions. These can include excessive cleaning, checking, counting, or repeating actions.
Recognising OCD Symptoms in Your Child
Children with OCD often experience a profound sense of anxiety and helplessness. The relief provided by compulsive actions is temporary, leading to the re-emergence of obsessions and thus creating a vicious cycle. This cycle can dominate a child’s life, making daily activities challenging. For instance:
- Contamination Obsessions and Cleaning Compulsions: Your child may be constantly worried about germs and spend hours washing their hands.
- Checking Compulsions: They might repeatedly check if doors are locked or if appliances are turned off to prevent perceived dangers.
- Symmetry and Orderliness: Some children feel the need to arrange items in a particular order or symmetry, spending an excessive amount of time organising.
The Psychological Impact of OCD on Children
OCD can interfere with personal relationships, school performance, and overall development. Many children with OCD are aware that their thoughts and behaviours are irrational, yet they feel powerless to stop them, leading to feelings of shame and isolation.
Psychological Support and Treatment for Children with OCD
Treatment typically involves psychological therapy and, in some cases, medication. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT, particularly Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), is considered the gold standard for OCD treatment. ERP involves gradually exposing children to their fears (obsessions) without engaging in compulsive behaviours. This process helps reduce anxiety over time and weakens the obsessive-compulsive cycle. You may wish to access support for your child through your local NHS Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS), which you can access through visiting your child's GP. Alternatively, you may wish to seek support privately through seeing a psychological therapist or psychologist. When seeking help privately, ensure any practitioner is appropriately qualified and experienced and has the relevant professional registration.
Supporting Your Child
As a parent, you play a crucial role in supporting your child through their OCD journey. Here are some steps you can take:
- Educate Yourself and Your Child: Understanding OCD can help demystify the experience, helping them and you to realise you are not alone. Share age-appropriate information with your child.
- Create a Supportive Environment: Encourage open communication and reassure your child that they are not alone. Validate their feelings and experiences.
- Seek Professional Help: Consult with a mental health professional who specialises in childhood OCD. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
- Be Patient and Understanding: Recovery from OCD takes time, and setbacks are common. Celebrate small victories and provide consistent support.
Conclusion
Recognising the symptoms of OCD and understanding its impact is the first step towards seeking help for your child. Psychological support can provide the necessary tools to manage OCD effectively. If you suspect your child is experiencing symptoms of OCD, don't hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for support and guidance.
To enquire about psychological therapy for OCD please Contact Us.
Support Organisations
OCD-UK - provides information, advice and support for people with OCD. Visit their website https://www.ocduk.org or email
OCD Action - offers services and support for people with OCD, their families, carers and friends. Visit their website https://ocdaction.org.uk, email
