OCD in Children: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

In both children and adults, the symptoms of OCD can be categorized into two types: obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are things that the patient thinks about constantly, even when the thoughts cause distress. The child may have these thoughts at inappropriate times and may even know that the thoughts are illogical.

Children with OCD may have obsessive thoughts about:

• Being “good enough” or avoiding doing anything bad

• Their own health and safety

• The health and safety of the people they love

• Cleanliness and germs

• Keeping things in perfect order

These obsessive thoughts often cause or go hand-in-hand with compulsive behaviors. Often, a child believes that performing the compulsions will stop something bad from happening.

For example, a child who obsesses over cleanliness and germs may feel compelled to wash their hand four times after using the restroom. Even when a child knows the compulsion is illogical, failing to complete it can cause severe anxiety.

Some common OCD symptoms in children include:

Obsessions:

• Intrusive Thoughts: Persistent and unwanted thoughts or images that cause anxiety or distress.

• Fear of Harm: Excessive fears of harm coming to oneself or others.

• Perfectionism: An intense need for things to be symmetrical or “just right.”

• Unpleasant Religious or Sexual Thoughts: Disturbing thoughts related to religious beliefs or sexuality.

Compulsions:

• Excessive Checking: Repeatedly checking things, such as locks or switches, to alleviate anxiety.

• Counting: Engaging in counting rituals, often associated with avoiding perceived harm.

• Cleaning and Washing: Compulsions related to cleanliness, often driven by fear of contamination.

• Ordering and Arranging: Needing things to be arranged in a specific way.

Other Behavioral Signs:

• Avoidance: Children may avoid situations or activities that trigger their obsessions.

• Reassurance-Seeking: Constantly seeking reassurance from caregivers to alleviate anxiety.

• Rituals and Routines: Developing strict rituals or routines that must be followed.

When children show signs of OCD, some parents feel guilty and ashamed. While there is no single known cause of OCD, researchers agree that parents should not feel as though they did something wrong. The exact cause of OCD in children is not well-understood, and it likely involves a combination of genetic, neurological, behavioral, cognitive, and environmental factors.

In some rare cases, an infection can cause pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections, or PANDAS for short. This can cause OCD in children after having strep throat. While this diagnosis is rare and controversial, it’s important for parents to know about the possibility.

If you notice symptoms of OCD in your child, you should know that you do not have to go about this alone. Using a variety of testing and evaluation methods , mental health care professionals can help you determine if your child does have OCD or if something else is going on.

In an effort to find the correct diagnosis, the mental health professional will talk to you and your child about symptoms. They will use your answers to fill out assessments that help determine if your child has OCD. If the child has this disorder, your initial reaction may be fear. However, many families come to feel like getting the diagnosis was a relief and the first step in getting help.

In treating your child’s OCD, the professional team may recommend medication, individual therapy, and/or family therapy. You do not have to consent to anything that you do not feel comfortable doing, and compassionate professionals will help you find a treatment plan that you feel good about.

The most common medications for OCD in children are SSRIs, including Zoloft . However, medications are only prescribed when appropriate. Many therapists recommend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for children with OCD. This can help them recognize negative thoughts, challenge or reframe them, and learn healthy coping mechanisms. Family therapy may also help you and your loved ones learn how to best support your child with OCD.

If a child with OCD doesn’t receive help, their symptoms may persist and worsen, leading to significant disruptions in daily life. Untreated OCD can adversely impact academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being.

Early intervention is important and seeking professional help can improve outcomes for children with OCD.