Over the course of the last month my grandchild who has just turned seven has suddenly developed OCD rituals and compulsions. These have escalated quickly and are now impacting dressing, getting ready for bed, walking etc. They were always on the mildly anxious side but the new development is worrying and stressful for everyone as meltdowns and distress follow when compulsions can’t be carried out. The parents have tried many avenues, GP, 111, visit to hospital A&E, eventually having to pay for a private consultation with a psychiatrist. Medication has been prescribed and they are on the waiting list for a private CBT therapist. ( CAMHS are assessing next week but the waiting list is so long so they cant rely on that as all research on OCD states that the sooner it is treated the better before the compulsions become entrenched. The family are exhausted and stressed and it is beginning to affect siblings. I know some of the basic principles re reacting to OCD behaviour at home - don’t accommodate their compulsions, don’t reassure, not reacting to the child’s distress etc. This is to gradually reduce the child’s need to carry out the rituals. Hoever these are not a parent’s intuitive reactions and are agonising to do. I believe OCD affects about 1-3 in every 100 children, some even younger. I’m sure someone out there will have experience of this in children. I’m very much looking for practical advice, positive experiences and hoping for some good news stories.Everyone’s nerves are shattered atm and struggling to cope.
Gary Glitter programme Tuesday