OCD

What Is It?

OCD stands for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. It is an Anxiety-Disorder.

Obsessions

Are intrusive, repetitive and unwanted thoughts that the child may experience. They are usually accompanied by high levels of anxiety, guilt and a sense of responsibility. One very important underlying feature of these thoughts is the persons fear that harm may somehow come to them or to other people. They must try to prevent this though their compulsions. The obsessions cannot be dismissed away, they create unbearable anxiety that often makes people feel quite helpless.

Typical Obsessions may Include:

• Fears of contamination or germs
• Obsessions about health
• Religious or moral obsessions
• Sexual obsessions
• Magical obsessions (for example that their thoughts can make or prevent things happening)

Compulsions

Sometimes called rituals, these are the things that the child does to reduce the anxiety or guilt caused by the obsessional thoughts. Some compulsions will be obvious to other people, others may not.

Typical Compulsions may Include:

• Washing and cleaning compulsions
• Checking e.g. making sure that certain doors are locked
• Repeating e.g. touching a door handle a certain number of times before being able to open it
• Needing to have things arranged or symmetrical
• Counting e.g. counting steps

Some people have obsessive thoughts without having any compulsions. Others have compulsions without knowing why they feel the need to do them. Many people experience obsessions and compulsions and are able to live with this without a problem. The only time people generally attempt to seek help is when their lives become disrupted by these unwanted thoughts and actions.

Beating OCD

OCD requires specialist help.

Speak to parents about your concerns and suggest they see their GP and discuss a referral to Rise (the mental health service for children and young people).

Telling someone with OCD to stop will not work and you may see other obsessions and compulsions develop.

National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE)

NICE guidelines are recommendations on the appropriate treatment and care of people with specific diseases and conditions within the NHS. Recommendations are based upon the most up to date research available.

The guidelines recommend psychological treatment such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) as the first line of treatment for OCD in young people. In some cases, when the child’s condition is dramatically impacting on their daily functioning, medication may be considered and given alongside CBT. The professionals at Rise will be able to answer all your questions and provide you with further information about these.