What Does Childhood OCD Look Like?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can look different to how most people imagine.

OCD is more than just being:

• A neat freak
• Habit
• Quirk

So, what does real childhood OCD look like?

Here are a few examples of how Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can manifest itself.

Lining things up in a certain way

For some children, OCD manifests as constantly having to rearrange things in a certain way. This could involve lining up stuff like toys, stationery and other items in a particular way until they look 'just right.'

Doing this can take up a lot of the day and can cause distress for the sufferer.

Repetitive washing

Other children engage in excessive cleaning, hand washing or showering rituals.

They do this not because they are dirty, but because they fear something bad will happen if they don't.

Compulsive checking

Some children develop compulsions around checking things over and over.

Things like checking if doors, and windows are locked or that light switches or straighteners are switched off.

These behaviours can be driven by a sense of uncertainty along with fears of intruders breaking in or fires occurring.

Fears about harming others

Another childhood OCD theme can be the fear of harming or offending others.

Compulsions around these themes can be mental as well as physical with children often mentally reciting prayers over and over, to keep others safe.

Control over food

Children can develop compulsions around food too.

This can take several forms including:

• Control around calorie intake often leading to compulsions centred around how many calories are consumed or what category of food is 'allowed'.
• Fears around food being 'contaminated.'
• Avoiding eating due to fears of choking or vomiting.

What is childhood OCD like?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder leads to children becoming trapped in a circle of thoughts.

These thoughts often dominate a child's mind and lead to them carrying out endless compulsions and being unable to focus or feel at ease.

What to do if you suspect a child is developing childhood OCD

If you suspect that a child is showing symptoms of childhood OCD, the first step is to book an appointment with your GP for an official diagnosis.

They will then refer your child to someone specialising in obsessive-compulsive disorder and children's mental health.

JOIN MY FREE FACEBOOK GROUP

If you're finding it challenging to support a child with OCD, I created a Facebook community where you can connect with others who understand what you’re going through. It’s a safe, supportive space to share experiences, advice, and resources to help both you and your child navigate OCD together.

Click on the link below to join today.

?? ?? ?? ?? ?? ??

Parenting Childhood OCD Facebook Group