How to Recognize signs of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder in Children

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is an anxiety disorder that can develop in children and adults. There are some signs and symptoms to look for in your child that could indicate that they are suffering from OCD and may need help

Instructions

1. Look for signs of anxiety when things are not perfect or out of order. Do they need to complete certain activities in a special order? This may be a sign of the development of rituals.

2. Check their hands. If they are very dry and chapped, they may be washing them over and over again. A common anxiety with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is an obsession with dirt.

3. Look for other signs of anxieties and rituals that may be interfering with everyday life. If your child fears that something may happen to your or someone they love if they don't perform a task perfectly and in a specific way, this is a form of a ritual.

Tips & Warnings

• Rituals are a coping mechanism for anxiety, a way to take control of a situation.

• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is treatable. Make sure you bring your child to their doctor and get a referral to a specialist.

• Often, adults who suffer from OCD actually developed it as a child