What is OCD?
OCD is a type of anxiety disorder in which intrusive, recurring thoughts or ideas (obsessions) drive you to do something repetitively (compulsions). While everyone has specific routines or rituals they follow, compulsions are often disruptive to your normal daily responsibilities and are driven by fear or a desire to stop or control obsessive thoughts.
While OCD manifests uniquely in each patient, some common obsessions include:
- Germs and contamination
- Symmetry or perfection
- Religious thoughts
- Sexual thoughts
Some common compulsions include:
- Hand washing or cleaning
- Counting
- Repeatedly checking things like locking the door or turning off the stove or other appliances
- Ordering or arranging items
- Mental compulsions such as repeating phrases to combat an intrusive thought or fear
Fortunately, the doctors at Ocean View Neuropsychiatry can treat and control OCD so your child can lead a healthy and fulfilling life.
What are the signs that my child has OCD?
Your child may not talk about their obsessive thoughts or fears. They might feel embarrassed or confused about their ideas and try to hide their rituals. Some of the signs you might notice include:
- Reduced concentration on schoolwork
- Lack of interest in activities they used to enjoy
- Signs of sadness, anxiety, or irritability
- Excessive worry
- Taking too long to complete regular activities like showering, getting dressed, or preparing for school
- Getting upset or overreacting when something is out of place
- Insisting that you or another family member do or say something in a precise manner
If you notice any of these behaviors, it doesn’t necessarily mean your child has OCD, but you should still make an appointment with the doctors at Ocean View Neuropsychiatry for assessment and help.
How is OCD treated?
Dr. Elmashat and Dr. Elatrozy treat children and young people with OCD with a combination of medicine and therapy. While the doctors use the lowest dose of medication possible, they may adjust your child’s prescription as you progress through therapy.
The medicine can regulate your child’s brain chemistry, which reduces their symptoms. This also provides the mental space for your child to explore their fears and intrusive obsessive thoughts in therapy and develop healthy coping strategies for when their obsessions emerge.
Call Ocean View Neuropsychiatry or make an appointment online today for expert diagnosis and treatment for childhood OCD.
