What are typical obsessive thoughts?
Most caregivers would agree that their children get stuck on things that they enjoy. At times, it may seem like the child or adolescent is always thinking about their favorite show, song, game, activity, or toy. For instance, a 3 year old may frequently think or talk about a stuffed toy that is at home. A 5 year old may insist on listening to the same song over and over again while riding in the car (and they may sing the song when they are not in the car). An 8 year old may talk relentlessly about a trading card game and be able to name all of the characters on those cards at any moment. Adolescents may talk about the same artists over and over again and know all about their lives. These types of obsessions are typical, usually not longstanding, and generally do not interfere with day-to-day life. It is also typical that some thoughts that are not wanted or that seem strange, such as thinking about throwing a phone out the window of a moving car, come to everyone's minds from time to time.
When should I be concerned about a child’s obsessive thoughts?
If a child or adolescent is unable to clear their minds of thoughts or worries they don't want to have, this may be cause for concern. Unwanted thoughts can also leave children or adolescents feeling distressed or interfere with their schooling, activities, or social lives. These types of thoughts may be indicating a bigger issue.
Here are some examples of unwanted thoughts and worries that may be a cause for concern:
- Silently counting to a specific number or counting objects to ensure there are a certain number of them.
- Repeating words mentally until they feel comfortable or “just right”.
- Making and repeatedly reviewing mental lists.
- Thinking or “replaying” past interactions over and over again to reassure themselves that they did not offend someone or hurt their feelings.
- Having recurrent worries about bad things happening.
- Having frequent worries about germs or dirt (even when it is not justified).
- Repeatedly seeking reassurance that bad things will not happen.
- Asking a caregiver about their worries over and over again.
As an observer, a caregiver may have a tough time telling if their child is experiencing unwanted thoughts or worries. These children or adolescents are often mistaken for being distracted or withdrawn. Other indicators may involve changes in the child’s or adolescent’s mood, appetite, sleep, school performance, or friendships.
What can I do to help a child with obsessive thoughts?
Caregivers know their children best. If you are a caregiver, there are a few things you may attempt:
- Talk and listen to your child. Ask simple questions to understand what kind of thoughts your child is having, if they are feeling worried, if they are having trouble thinking of other things, or if they are feeling distressed.
- Be supportive. Let your child know that you have noticed that something might be troubling them, that you care, and that you are there to help.
- Avoid providing reassurance for your child's obsessive thoughts. Sometimes children or adolescents come to us repeatedly about something they are thinking about seeking for reassurance. Even though providing reassurance may help them feel less worried in the moment, it can also reinforce their worries.
- Let your child know that thoughts are not the same things as facts. A lot of thoughts come to our mind on a daily basis and not all that we think about are facts. So, sometimes, it is important to take our thoughts a little less seriously.
- Demonstrate problem solving. Without disregarding your child's point of view, you may try helping them to think about factual reasons why they could deal with their unwanted thoughts in a different way.
If you have already tried some or most of these suggestions and the problems your child is facing persist, it may be time to seek out professional support.
Obsessive thoughts that are too frequent, intense, present in many different contexts, discrepant from those experienced by children the same age, and that negatively interfere with your child's and family’s daily lives may indicate the possibility of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
What kind of professional support can I seek out for help?
It is not unusual that some caregivers feel embarrassed, inadequate, or guilty if their child is struggling with obsessive thoughts. But, if you are concerned about your child, support and guidance are available now. Communicate concerns during and between visits with your child's doctor.
Pediatricians or family physicians can help to address initial concerns and refer to specialized professionals. Also, whenever possible, a consultation with a mental health professional may be helpful. These professionals also work with caregivers so that they know how to support their children outside of therapy sessions.
The public system provides services through the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) and Centers of Multidisciplinary Assessment, Counseling, and Support (KEDASY).
Where to find more information
Specific, detailed, and clinical information on Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) can be found at [clinical short guide at the program website].
If you want to know more about the closest available services for educational and public health systems for children and adolescent assistance across the country, go to our Services Mapping webpage here.
You can also find more information by pointing your phone camera at the QR code below or by clicking here.
