This content has been updated from the previous article on June 17, 2021.
While popular media would have people believe that OCD exclusively affects adults, children can develop the condition. In fact, early-onset OCD is one of the more common mental illnesses of children and adolescents, with a prevalence of 1% to 3%. It impairs the quality of life of the affected young people but is often diagnosed only after a delay.
Researchers have found that COVID-19 has worsened OCD symptoms in children and teens with the disorder. Furthermore, it appears that some people are developing OCD in response to COVID-19 trauma, even when they did not live with the disorder before. Parents who know about this disorder’s symptoms, causes, and treatment options can look out for signs of OCD in children and help their kids if the problem ever arises.