Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Early-onset obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) typically affects children between the ages of 10-12, but it can also develop in early childhood or late adolescence. OCD causes significant distress and can interfere with all aspects of your little one’s life, including emotional development, learning, and social interaction. Fortunately, OCD is highly treatable. Angel Kids Pediatrics, with multiple locations in Jacksonville, Amelia Island, and St. Johns, Florida, diagnoses and treats OCD in children, teens, and their families. To schedule an evaluation for OCD, schedule by contacting 904-224-KIDS (5437) today. 

What is OCD?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) affects children, adolescents, and adults. It’s characterized by intrusive, obsessive thoughts and uncontrollable impulses. 

These feelings cause patients to repeat actions or rituals in an attempt to alleviate their distress. However, these compulsive behaviors provide only temporary relief, so your child ends up repeating them over and over again.

What causes OCD?

Researchers aren’t yet clear about what exactly causes OCD; it appears to be a problem in the neurochemical messaging system of the brain. Genetics, certain infections, and a history of abuse have been linked to an increased risk of OCD.

How do I know if my child has OCD? 

If your child may have OCD, you might notice the following behaviors:

• Excessive hand-washing or cleaning
• Constantly re-doing things like writing or tasks
• Repeating a word, phrase, or question over and over
• Checking and rechecking doors or locks
• Frequent touching or tapping 
• Stepping or walking in a repeated pattern

Your child might need to have their personal space organized in a specific way. They may need to place objects in a symmetrical configuration or line them up by size, and experience distress if they're out of place.

What services are available for OCD?

OCD can be challenging to diagnose in children. Angel Kids Pediatrics has the expertise to accurately diagnose OCD, even in very young patients.

The team also recommends treatment solutions for children and adolescents and provides resources to help them recover from the distress of OCD.

Available services for OCD include:

Medication management

Medication can benefit many patients with OCD. Angel Kids Pediatrics provides ongoing monitoring of how your child responds to psychiatric medication and tracks their current progress. The team also makes changes in dosage or medicines when needed.

Comprehensive evaluation report

The practice provides evaluation reports to your child’s school, outside agencies, benefits providers, and other entities when necessary, and not only for OCD! If it best supports your child’s treatment plan for OCD, these reports confirm your child’s eligibility for services and support that can help them gain control over their OCD symptoms and lead a happy, productive life.

Schedule an evaluation by contacting 904-224-KIDS (5437) today or request an appointment online.