This page has been medically reviewed by Dr Marielle Quint, March 2025.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition where a child or teenager experiences ongoing, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and feels the need to perform certain behaviours or mental rituals (compulsions) to reduce anxiety. OCD can become time-consuming and distressing, often interfering with school, family life, and friendships.
OCD symptoms typically fall into three categories: obsessions, compulsions, and emotional/behavioural signs.
1. Obsessions (Intrusive and Unwanted Thoughts)
Obsessions are persistent and distressing thoughts, images, or urges that a child may struggle to ignore. Common themes include:
Contamination fears – e.g., fear of germs, illness, or dirt
Harm-related worries – e.g., fear of causing harm by mistake or not preventing danger
Perfectionism or need for order – e.g., needing things to be ‘just right’ or symmetrical
Religious or moral concerns – e.g., fear of doing something wrong or being a “bad person”
Superstitious thoughts – e.g., believing specific actions or numbers prevent bad outcomes
2. Compulsions (Repetitive Behaviours or Mental Rituals)
Compulsions are repetitive actions a child feels they must perform to relieve anxiety caused by obsessions. These may include:
Excessive handwashing, cleaning, or use of sanitiser
Repeated checking (e.g., doors, appliances, school bag contents)
Repeating words, prayers, or phrases in a specific way
Arranging or tapping objects until they feel “just right”
Avoiding certain numbers, colours, people, or places
3. Emotional and Behavioural Signs
Spending long periods performing rituals, causing lateness or stress
Difficulty focusing due to intrusive thoughts
Seeking constant reassurance from parents or teachers
Irritability, anxiety, or distress when routines are disrupted
Mood swings or emotional outbursts linked to OCD distress
Diagnosis involves assessing a child’s thoughts, behaviours, and how much these impact their day-to-day life. A mental health professional will:
Speak with the child and caregivers about their experiences
Use standardised tools to assess symptom patterns
Rule out other possible causes of distress
Early diagnosis is important so children can access the support they need to manage symptoms and reduce disruption to their life.
OCD is a treatable condition, and many children improve significantly with the right support.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
This is the most effective, evidence-based therapy for OCD. It helps children:
Understand how OCD works
Gradually face their fears in a safe and supportive way (exposure)
Resist the urge to perform rituals (response prevention)
Learn healthier ways to manage anxiety and intrusive thoughts
Family Involvement
Parents are supported to understand the condition and reduce unintentional reinforcement of rituals. Practical strategies can also help reduce stress at home.
Medication
In some cases, medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be considered alongside therapy, particularly if symptoms are severe or ongoing.
At Kidswell Health, we have an experienced in-house team of child psychologists and therapists who specialise in treating OCD. We offer tailored assessments, effective therapy approaches like CBT with ERP, and compassionate support for families — all under one roof.
For more information and youth-friendly guidance on OCD, these websites offer helpful tools and support:
If your child is in immediate distress or at risk of harm, seek urgent help through emergency services or use Mind’s crisis guide.
Book an appointment with one of our experienced professionals today.
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