Children and OCD – Can Children Also be Affected?

According to general opinion OCD occurs only in adults, but it is true that children can also suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder. The arrival of OCD in children and adults is different, as there are many other differences in them. When obsessions and compulsions are seen in children before the age of puberty can be categorized as childhood OCD. At an average of 1 to 3% of children suffer from OCD. Makes its first appearance about 10 years. TOC has been observed in children as young as 5 or 6 years old. The interesting fact is that children are more affected by the onset of childhood OCD and children are also prone to tic disorders. Children are usually afraid of death of their parents. Most of their obsessions and compulsions revolve around family members. They are always in fear of no harm to them or family members. In general, check and recheck, doors and windows of the house, fearing that may be left unlocked. Slightly older children may fear the germs become compulsive hand washers or frequent showers. Children with OCD can start building things. Often children are afraid to share their problems with others. The fear of being called crazy keeps them from communicating with their parents about their fears and compulsions. Parents should be vigilant about their children's behavior and should try to communicate with children to better understand your problem. Professional help can be obtained in time to get rid of the problem. It is easily curable with the help of psychotherapy and medication if necessary. Children need to see a child or adolescent psychiatrist to take appropriate measures for the complex situation created by the TOC.