When a child is diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), the parents are often deeply affected, too. Not only do they have to cope with their child’s distress and behavior problems, but they often feel partially responsible for triggering the OCD in the first place. When a parent has OCD, not only does his or her own life become more difficult, but the whole family must learn to cope with the disorder.
Fortunately, there are treatments available for both parents and children with OCD. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most effective treatment for OCD. This type of therapy helps people learn how to change their thoughts and behaviors that contribute to their OCD. Family therapy may also be helpful, as it can help improve communication within the family and provide support for the entire family unit.
If a parent cannot participate in CBT due to time constraints or other factors, medication may be prescribed to help reduce symptoms. Some parents find that they need to take the medication to focus on and complete CBT successfully. However, medication alone will not effectively treat OCD in a child or adult.
Parents with OCD may also benefit from sharing their experiences and strategies with other parents who have children with the disorder. In OCD Support Groups, parents can share information and support each other as they learn about their child’s treatment process.
In addition to CBT and family therapy, a parent with OCD may benefit from attending a support group or seeing a therapist on his or her own. A mental health professional can guide parenting skills and offer additional coping strategies for managing stress and anxiety. Parents who find it difficult to make time for their personal needs often neglect self-care activities vital for maintaining good health. By establishing an effective routine of healthy habits—such as getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and following a nutritious diet—parents can better cope with the challenges of life.
Parents with OCD need support, and they need to get involved in activities outside of the home. Parents with OCD may need professional guidance on how best to achieve these goals if they are experiencing challenges in socializing or withdrawing from others due largely to obsessions or compulsions related to anxiety about their OCD.
If you have a senior or elderly suffering from OCD, it may be difficult to diagnose because some of the symptoms overlap with normal aging, such as a decline in cognitive abilities. As a result, family members or caregivers may not realize a problem until the condition has progressed significantly. If you are concerned that your elderly loved one may have OCD, it is important to consult with a mental health professional to make an accurate diagnosis and recommend the appropriate treatment.
