Recognizing OCD in children: Symptoms and treatment
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a common, chronic, and long-lasting disorder which causes people to have recurring, unwanted thoughts or sensations (obsessions) that drive them to do something repetitively. Obsessions are unwanted yet persistent thoughts or images that cause extreme distress and compulsions are behaviours that one can’t resist. While it is often considered to be a disorder that mostly affects adults, it has been found that kids are also likely to develop OCD. There are a few differences that set adult-onset and childhood onset OCD apart.
OCD in children
When the obsessions and compulsions appear before puberty, the diagnosis is childhood-onset OCD. Children often have less insight to offer in regards to their obsessions because they have not yet fully developed the capacity to understand their irrational thoughts. Many times, this hinders a proper diagnosis.
There are a lot of differences in the obsessions as well as compulsions of kids and adults with OCD. Children’s obsessions are more centred around their family members and they may show hoarding habits more often than adults. They also have a higher risk of developing mental health disorders including ADHD.
Signs and Symptoms of OCD
Children with OCD typically show obsessions with thoughts like this:
- Preoccupation with order or symmetry.
- Thoughts or images of violence and disturbing things that can harm others.
- Extreme worry about doing something wrong.
- Aversion towards getting sick or worrying about others getting sick.
The common compulsions or behaviours they indulge in are:
- Repeatedly counting things.
- Excessive preoccupation with hand washing, brushing teeth, bathing.
- Elaborate habits and rituals they must perform all the way through in the exact same manner.
- Organising things in a certain order and only in that order.
- Repeating sounds or words to themselves over and over again.
- Seeking constant reassurance from their family and friends.
These symptoms are similar to the signs of other behavioural and developmental disorders like ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, or anxiety disorders. OCD can sometimes be mistaken for these or even co-exist with these disorders.
What are the treatment options?
There are many treatment options for OCD. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is the most common one. It involves exposing children to the triggers of their compulsion while decreasing their dependence on the compulsive behaviours. In severe cases, treatment may include medication in combination with CBT.
How can parents help?
Raising a child with OCD can be very tricky. The first and foremost step that parents of a child with this condition needs to take is be well-informed about it. This will help them take the right decision while choosing a treatment option. Parents should also try and develop a strong partnership with the professionals involved in their child’s treatment. Ask questions and find out about resources where you can get more information about your child’s condition. Supporting children through therapy can be taxing for parents as well.