Possible childhood OCD triggers... and how to manage them

Before finding myself parenting a child with OCD, I had no idea of what could trigger childhood OCD...or how to manage it.

So, what are some of the most common triggers for childhood OCD?

And what can you do to reduce their impact?

Common OCD triggers in children

Here are a few examples of things that can lead to a child developing OCD.

• Being singled out or bullied. This can include a throwaway remark made or being sniggered at.
• Striving for perfection, including in exam grades and excelling at sport.
• The death of a family member or friend.
• Moving home or school.
• Environmental triggers such as a pandemic.

So what can you do if your child is prone to anxiety and you fear that any of the above could lead to them developing childhood OCD?

Here are a few approaches you can try.

• Be mindful of potential triggers and closely monitor your child if any of the above apply.
• Be on the lookout for any changes in their behaviour. This can include doing something over and over, like washing hands, avoiding people or places, and having meltdowns.
• Try to find ways to distract intrusive thoughts by doing something calming, like listening to music, going for a drive in the car or doing a fun activity together.
• Seel professional help starting with an appointment with your GP.
• Confide in the head of the year so that discreet support can be given at school.

Both of my Mind Monsters books focus on OCD triggers and share methods to start managing OCD behaviours before they get out of hand.

In my first book, Hank the Hungry Monster, OCD is depicted as a hungry monster. The trigger is bullying, and after confiding in a teacher, the lead character, Annabelle, learns how to say no to Hank (aka OCD).

In my second book, Trixie the Treat Monster, the trigger is missing a penalty shot. After confiding in his best friend, Emily, Trixie the Treat Monster teaches Leo how to manage intrusive thoughts by replacing them with more fun ones instead.

I donate half the profits I make from both books to CAMHS (child and adolescent mental health services).

??Signed copies of my books can be purchased on my website by clicking the link below. Please enter the message you would like me to insert into the book for your child within the 'instruction to seller' section.

The Mind Monsters

Alternatively, copies are available to purchase on Waterstones, WH Smith, Amazon and most other leading book retailers.

Reasons to purchase my books.

1. Donate to your local primary school to help younger children with anxiety and OCD.
2. For your child or relative.
3. Donate to your local library.

Here's another lovely 5* review left on Amazon about my book this week.

"Julie’s book is simple and yet brilliant. In a non scary way she clearly explains to young people what OCD can be, how it can develop and how it can be silenced. This also goes into other areas of mental health for young people.Julie is on their wavelength and this book is also a must read for all adults who are in contact with young people. Our world has so many challenges for them we must explore all ways to help reduce the fear and Julie does this so very very well.Hope there’s more on other aspects of Mental Health too for young people.Truly a gem of a book".

Not bad for someone who didn't feel worthy to publish a children's book.

Feeling grateful. ??