Your parental instincts are to look out for the best interests of your child. As such, obsessive-compulsive disorders are one of the prime reasons we should closely examine behavioral aspects in children. Some kids with the disorder are under so much stress, anxiety and worry that it’s difficult for them to cope with it. According to kidshealth.org, about 1% of children in the United States are diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder. Naturally, they are prone to nervous compulsions or rituals to ward off scary thoughts or emotions. Therefore, it increases their desire to collect things to keep them emotionally stable. Children may try to hide their rituals or excuse the problems all together, but parents should step in and take accountability.
Here are ways to deal with an obsessive-compulsive child:
1. Visit a doctor who specializes in obsessive-compulsive disorder
The first route is taking your child to a physician who can treat the disorder. But most importantly, select a doctor who is knowledgeable about the severity of his or her case. According to incrisis.org, seeing a specialist early on improves the chances that your child won’t fall victim to the excessive rituals, compulsions or superstitions that lie ahead. Early treatments can combat the disorder with prescription medications or therapies. Lastly, find out what behavioral practices are necessary to reduce stress and anxiety.
2. Interact with your child on a regular basis to keep his or her mind at ease
Positive interaction is a great maneuver in handling your child’s disorder. It provides a well-rounded framework for them to build relationships outside their isolated center. Most importantly, you will develop a lasting bond for them to become functional children. This stage can be time-consuming, yet rewarding once the work has started.
3. Get them involved in physical activities or fitness
Get their minds, bodies and souls active again with physical fitness. There is no better tool than to incorporate a fast-active regiment into their daily schedule. Not only will it permit stress reduction, but the child will be compelled to perform simple tasks such as endurance. Shake up your child’s day with a morning jog, cardio-fitness, or kick-boxing which are competitive, fun and on-the-go.
4. Use relaxation techniques such as yoga and meditation
Any form of relaxation techniques is useful for the body. According to helpguide.org, children suffering from severe anxiety can cope with these mechanisms that treat every part of body. Find ways to incorporate added stress relievers such as yoga, medication or music to relax the mind. Find a program that will enhance your child’s ability to learn and grow outside of his or her comfort zone.
5. Knowledge is power! Find out how to deal with it through doctors, books, and therapists
Knowledge is key! Dig deeper into books and find ways to learn more about obsessive-compulsive disorder. As the caregiver, you have an obligation to your child to raise him or her on these basic principles. How should I treat this condition? How can I cope without being overwhelmed? Whom should I talk to besides a physician? These are vital questions to ask yourself despite how accustomed you are to anxiety. A disorder has the ability to worsen overtime, so read literature pertaining to the disorder. Also, speak to a doctor or clinical therapist.
6. Get involved in family or group sessions to develop relationships
Join family or group sessions for youth dealing with OCD. This practice can be informative and resourceful in your quest for guidance, and it can offer stability. It also helps to reduce tension among family and friends. The reality that you’re not alone in the struggle helps to be understanding to someone else’s plight and vice versa. You can share your experiences with others in the seminar to get a feel for how they are coping as well. These seminars have the potential to bring everyone and everything to the forefront.
