Let's talk life - My daughter is obsessive

Dear counsellor,

My daughter was diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder. She washes her hands so often that the skin is sore. She will check the door many times to ensure that it is closed. She is a perfectionist and has difficulty finishing what she has started. She uses the pencil eraser very often and her schoolwork is untidy. She is afraid to make mistakes and is unwilling to try new things. She gets nervous at times and worries a lot. She is afraid to go to school because the children tease her a lot.

- Marie

Dear Marie,

Obsessive compulsive disorder is not a rare disease. It affects adult and children and can impair functioning. Children do poorly at school and the disorder is overlooked many times. You will need to take your daughter to a paediatric psychiatrist who will do an assessment to identify other disorders that may be present.

Many times the student is depressed with low self-esteem. The teacher needs to be involved in her care. The teacher will have to organise the classroom to accommodate your daughter. Work hand in hand with the teacher to maximise her potential.

Coping strategies

There are strategies to use to help your daughter to cope. Many times people may think that the child can control the obsessions or the compulsions. The child is overwhelmed by the anxiety and has great difficulty concentrating or paying attention in class. The child wants to do well but the distracting thoughts or behaviours are interfering with the learning.

Obsessive compulsive disorder can be controlled with treatment. She needs to be seen by a specialist.

Email questions and feedback for Dr Yvonnie Bailey-Davidson to yvonniebd@hotmail.com or call 978-8602.