Obsessive-compulsive disorder(OCD) is characterized by frequent unwanted thoughts known as obsessions.
The recurring obsessions then lead to behaviors known as compulsions.
For a person with OCD, the obsessions and compulsions are upsetting and interfere with daily life.
Peter Dazeley
This article will provide an overview of OCD in children, including symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
Children with OCD often appear tired and stressed because they are fatigued by their frequent compulsive behaviors.
Its helpful to remember that a childs specific obsessions or compulsions can evolve or change over time.
Most experts believe that genetic and neurological factors may contribute to a childs risk.
OCD appears to run in families.
A childs risk of OCD may be increased if their mother experienced health problems duringpregnancy.
Diagnosing OCD in Children
Diagnosing OCDin children is not a straightforward process.
The process usually involves ruling out other possible causes of the childs symptoms.
Many children take a stab at hide their compulsions because they recognize that their behaviors are not ordinary.
This is a good sign that they need support from a professional.
Most children with suspected OCD are evaluated foranxiety,depression, and tic disorders before being diagnosed with OCD.
Treatment for OCD
Children with OCD are usually treated with a combination of therapy and medications.
Support for the entire family is also an important aspect oftreatment.
Therapy
Therapy is usually the first step in treating OCD in children.
Therapies used to treat OCD include:
Medication
In addition to therapy, many children require medication.
Drugs used in treating OCD include serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRIs) andselective serotonin reuptake inhibitors(SSRIs).
These medications can help to reduce OCD symptoms and anxious thoughts.
Its important to remember that they typically take eight to 12 weeks to be effective.
Family Support
When a child has OCD, the entire family is affected.
Behavioral specialists can teach a childs family how to recognize triggers and best respond to the childs behaviors.
Parents and caregivers may also benefit from working with a therapist or support group on their own.
TheInternational OCD Foundationhas several resources for families affected by OCD.
Summary
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) involves frequent, repetitive thoughts and behaviors.
These unwanted thoughts are known as obsessions, and the resulting behaviors are known as compulsions.
Its estimated that about 1.2% of American adults have OCD.
Of those individuals, about one-third to one-half likely first showed signs of OCD in childhood.
Obsessive thoughts and behaviors can begin as early as preschool.
Treatment options often include therapy, medications, or both.
A Word From Verywell
All children have worries and habits.
These thoughts and behaviors become concerning when they interfere with your childs everyday life.
OCD symptoms are often distressing for children and their families.
Know that you are not alone.
Talk with your childs healthcare provider about family resources like therapy and support groups.
Frequently Asked Questions
A mild case of OCD may require treatment.
Talk with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and how severe they are.
The first step is to be evaluated by a mental health provider.
Nemours Kids Health.Obsessive-compulsive disorder (for parents).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Obsessive-compulsive disorder in children.
National Institute of Mental Health.Obsessive-compulsive disorder.
American Academy of Pediatrics.Obsessive-compulsive disorders in children.
Yale Medicine.Obsessive-compulsive disorder in children.
2021 Jan 20;11:612586. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2020.612586
