OBSESSIVE-COMPULSIVE DISORDER IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

What is Obsessive – Compulsive disorder (OCD)?
Obsessive – compulsive disorder (OCD) usually begins in adolescence or young adulthood. It is characterized by recurrent obsession and or compulsions that are intense enough to cause severe discomfort. Obsessions are recurrent and persistent thoughts, impulses or images that are unwanted and cause marked anxiety or distress.

What are the symptoms of obsessive – compulsive disorder?
The child continues to do a certain activity repeatedly or have same thoughts repeatedly that interfere with the child’s normal routine, academic functioning, social activities or relationships. Some OCD children may fear that harm (any type) may occur to himself or a family member. The repetitions may be in form of obsessive cleaning (even if the glass is clean) to make sure no germs enter or other obsessive behavior.

What should you do if you have a child with OCD?
Most of the parents and children feel shame and embarrassment about their OCD. Sometimes they think they are crazy but good communication between parents and children can increase understanding of the problem and the help the parents support their children. Most of the time children with OCD can be treated with a combination of psychotherapy especially cognitive and behavioral techniques and certain medication.

Last updated on 01-03-2007