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OCD in children, adultsChildren may worry a little or a lot about school, friends and family issues. But for a child or adolescent with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder or OCD, their worries cause severe discomfort and interfere with day to day functioning, school work and relationships with friends and family. Obsessions are recurrent and persistent thoughts, impulses or images that are unwanted and cause marked anxiety or distress. These frequently unrealistic or irrational and not simply excessive worries about real-life problems or preoccupations. Obsessive thoughts may vary with age of the child, and may change as they get older. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or rituals (like hand washing, hoarding, checking something over and over) or mental acts (like counting, repeating words silently.) For example, younger children with OCD may have persistent thoughts that something bad is going to happen to them or a family member. To relieve that anxiety, the child may compulsively check to be sure all the doors at home are locked before going to bed. If the anxiety continues, the child will continue to check the locks over and over. An older child or teenager's worries may relate to more complex issues such as fear of a serious disease, a major injury, or a global disaster. The child may then develop repeated behaviors, such as hand washing, to help them cope with those fears. Children and adolescents often feel embarrassed about OCD and are hesitant to talk about their thoughts and behaviors. Family involvement and understanding are important in treating this illness, along with therapy and, in some instances, medications. Parents who have questions or concerns about this childhood illness should seek help from a physician, psychiatrist or mental health professional. Contributed by Karen Schueler, LCPC, Manager, Consultation and Education Department. Mail questions to: High Plains Mental Health Center, PLAIN SENSE, Consultation and Education Department, 208 East 7th, Hays, KS 67601; or visit www.highplainsmentalhealth.com. Date: 8/22/06
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