I’m new here and need help, not as someone who suffers from OCD, but as a mother who’s child (I believe) suffers from OCD. We have not had an official diagnosis yet as I am searching for a physician at this time. She has all of the aspects on the subject specifically, so I really wouldn’t be surprised by an OCD diagnosis at all. My question is, do any of you remember a time when the OCD became a problem for you? I meant, did something happen to trigger it or make it much worse or more evident? I’ve always known she was a “perfectionist” and very intellectually minded, so to speak, but several incidents happened last year (she’s almost 14) with some friends that didn’t end well. Since then, it’s as if she can’t focus at all and gets very obsessed by things. Almost like the incidents last year exacerbated the underlying problem. I want to help her however I can until we can get into a Dr, I just don’t know how and it seems she gets mad and irritated with me when I try, which is hurting this Moms heart. Can any of you suggest what I should or shouldn’t do at this point? She literally becomes frozen with certain fears, like being stung by a bee (never been stung before). Honestly, she’s had a fear of going to the bathroom forever (10 years), but medical Drs have never been able to help and now I know why. So, all to say, I’m not in denial but just want to help her. Thanks for any input you can give.

I am sorry your daughter is going through this. I know my OCD started in 4th grade, I'm 47 now. I can not recall any major thing occurring except I was going through puberty. It is possible this contributed to my sudden OCD. My son who is now 19, also showed signs at an early age. I noticed little things that he used to do like rewriting over words and being the last person to turn in a test. Same issues i had. Both myself and my son were high achievers. He never got treatment until he left for college. Just be there for her and allow her to talk to you openly and freely about her obsessions and rituals. I did with my son. It helps to have family understand and not judge you. I didn't have that as it was not something that was diagnosed when i was a child. Treatment will help but make sure it is someone your daughter feels comfortable with. OCD is often triggered by stress. My younger son experienced extreme anxiety after some issues with friends happened at school. He grew very anxious and would freeze with fear before school. He didn't want to be around people. He was extremely sensitive So it is possible your daughter is experiencing some other issues besides OCD. both my sons are doing better and the older one actually was Valedictorian. So with your support, she will get better. It is just tough seeing our children go this.

Hey West. If you and your daughter want to get a good understanding of what is happening, the appropriate help and tips to deal with it in the mean time Charles H. Elliott Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder For Dummies Is a good book and available on Amazon.

As someone who has OCD but also has children I can imagine how painful this must be for you. I see little traits in my young son of an anxious disposition under his very outgoing outside and I hope that is not a sign of things to come. However there is great help out there and I would guess it would be best not to dwell to much on what triggered it wether an event or biology as the help is essentially the same. I would maybe suggest reading a book about ocd. Maybe get two copies so you can learn together, or if she is not interested in reading it yet read yours so that you will have some idea how to help until the profession help is available.

i would love talk with anyone?

Mattwalker can you recommend a book that won’t waste my time or money? ?

My OCD started at age 5-6 (37 years old now). I remember crying and telling my parents about the distress I was feeling. Their response was anger and to tell me there was nothing wrong. This led to deep shame and trying as hard as possible to conceal my symptoms as I knew they would lead to anger from my parents, as they did without fail every time they saw evidence of my anxiety or compulsions. Because of this I didn't get diagnosed or treatment until I was 19. I wish they would have seen me as someone with a mental disorder who needed compassion and treatment. So my best advice is to treat your child with love and compassion and find them proper ERP treatment.

Thank you!