Understanding Teen OCD: Signs, Symptoms, and Effective Strategies for Parent

Apr 9, 2024

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In today’s episode, we dive deep into Teen OCD with Natasha Daniels, an experienced anxiety and OCD therapist who has been helping families navigate these challenges for over two decades.

Natasha is also the creator of AT Parenting Survival and the host of the AT Parenting Survival Podcast. With both her clinical expertise and personal experience raising three kids with OCD, Natasha offers invaluable insights on supporting teens with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. If you're a parent wondering how to spot OCD in your teen, what steps to take, or how to avoid common pitfalls, this episode is a must-listen.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

How to Spot OCD in Your Teen – The common signs and how OCD can look different in adolescents.
OCD Myths Busted – Natasha tackles common misconceptions about teen OCD and its impact on their lives.
The Worst Things Parents Can Do for Their Teen's OCD – Learn about parental responses that can unintentionally strengthen OCD behaviors.
Effective Strategies to Support Teens with OCD – What to do instead, including practical advice for early intervention.

5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS

Recognizing OCD Symptoms in Teens
OCD in teens often shows up in subtle ways, like appearing distracted or engaging in repetitive behaviors such as hand-washing or checking things multiple times. Look for signs of intrusive thoughts or anxiety-driven actions that persist despite logical explanations. When typical curiosity or behavior becomes obsessive or interferes with daily functioning, it might be a sign of OCD.
How to Approach OCD Without Shaming or Enabling
Parents often unknowingly make mistakes like rationalizing OCD behaviors or giving in to compulsions. Instead, avoid shaming or minimizing their struggles. Acknowledge the OCD without reinforcing the compulsions. Approach your teen with empathy, understanding that their actions are driven by anxiety, not willful behavior.
The Power of Psychoeducation for Teens
One of the best ways to help your teen manage OCD is by educating them about the disorder. Help them understand that their obsessive thoughts are not a reflection of who they are, but a part of a brain glitch that gets stuck. Normalizing their experiences makes them feel less isolated and better equipped to fight back against the disorder.
The Importance of ERP Therapy for Teens with OCD
Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy is the gold-standard treatment for OCD, and it's essential for teens struggling with this condition. ERP helps your teen confront their fears by gradually exposing them to their anxiety triggers without allowing them to perform their compulsions. Working with an OCD-trained therapist who specializes in ERP is crucial for success.
The Role of Parents in Fighting OCD Together
As a parent, it's vital to separate your teen from their OCD. Frame it as a battle you're both facing together. Support your teen by creating a plan of action to address OCD behaviors and stick to it, even when it's tough. Show them they are not alone in this struggle and that you’re in it as a team—this can be one of the most powerful tools in overcoming OCD.

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RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Free online course for teens on understanding OCD

EPISODE CHAPTERS:

[00:00] Introduction to Natasha Daniels
[05:00] Understanding Teen OCD
[10:00] What to Do and What Not to Do as a Parent
[20:00] How ERP Therapy Can Help Teens
[30:00] Key Takeaways and Closing Thoughts

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Natasha Daniels

CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell

ABOUT THE SHOW

The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswell, an adolescent psychologist and certified parenting coach, this podcast offers practical parenting strategies, expert advice, and real-world insights to help you build a stronger relationship with your teen and support their emotional growth. Whether you’re struggling with teenage behavior or looking to improve communication, each episode provides actionable tips to make parenting teens easier and more rewarding. Perfect for both new and seasoned parents, this podcast helps you build the confidence to handle teen challenges and thrive together.

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