by: Kasha Martin and Natalie Bunner, LCSW-BACS
Alyssa, an 11-year-old, has picked up a habit. Her caregiver noticed that while working on math homework, Alyssa plucks strands from her hair. Upon closer view, her caregiver noticed that Alyssa now has a small bald spot near her temple. Feeling alarmed, they explore what is happening and learn from Alyssa that plucking at the strands of hair helps her do well in Math. She believes that she must pluck hair in a particular spot in order to maintain progress in class. Alyssa experiences the most satisfaction when pulling hairs there as she understands that the action is key to her success. When encouraged to stop pulling, she stated that she cannot because, if she did, she would fail Math for the school year.
This is an example of OCD.
OCD Defined
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is an anxiety-related mental health disorder in which people experience pattern of unwanted thoughts, feelings, and fears that lead to repetitive behaviors. Today, we will focus on the O – Obsessions – in OCD. Many people with OCD experience obsessive ruminations, where they find themselves struggling to move through unhelpful thoughts. Try as they might, they feel confounded and overwhelmed by these intrusive thoughts. Obsessions can impair the ability to function and negatively impact the capacity to work, relate and live fully. While symptoms can vary from person to person, our purpose is to explore how it typically manifests in children.
- Obsessions in Children can relate to:
- Disproportionate fear and/or avoidance of germs or dirt
- Preoccupation with losing or forgetting things
- Overwhelming need for organization
- Intrusive thoughts of violence or harm, whether as perpetrator or victim
- Obsessive thoughts regarding rules or order.
- Extreme need for rigid morality.
Remember, these obsessions are repetitive and intrusive. The thoughts are not based in reality. They are generally unwanted thoughts that intrude on your life and make it difficult to function. They don’t have to make sense or be logical; they just need to be distressing for you.
The Impact of OCD
Unfettered, obsessive thoughts can begin to impair your child’s daily functioning. The continual intrusions can lead to compulsive behaviors and disrupt their mood and relationships. The impact of OCD can look like:
- Inconsistent sleep hygiene
- Anxious or depressed mood
- Poor emotional regulation
- Withdrawn presentation
- School Anxiety
- Separation Anxiety
- Social challenges
- Body Dysmorphia
- Agoraphobia
These symptoms and more can be very challenging for a child with OCD. In Part 2 of this series, we will explore compulsions and the impact they have on a child’s mental and emotional health. Until then, what can you do if you think your child may struggle with OCD symptoms?
Parent Tip: How to Respond to Obsessive Thinking
If your child is showing signs of OCD – Obsessions:
- Speak with your child about their thoughts. Talk in a supportive way and listen, while showing love.
- Make an appointment with a therapist with training in treating OCD.
- Be an active part in your child’s therapy.
- Identify community resources that may provide your child with guidance and support
Parents, it can be hard to watch your child struggle with the challenges associated with OCD. It is important to recognize that it is not your fault. It will require you to become educated on the diagnosis so that you can best help your child. With compassion and understanding, you can help your child acknowledge and deal with their obsessive tendencies without shame. You can be a part of their healing and celebrate their efforts to live a more enriched life.