How do I best help my doughter until we get treatment?

[mayalove]

Hi all, our diughter has symetri, tapping on things, counting and also urge to re-write the same word or read the same word several times like getting stuck. We have an appointment on 22/12 and I wonder is wrong om me to explain ocd to her what it is and that it can be cured through training. I read the book you are not you brain with a 4 step program to start practicing. She is 13 and has been hiding her sequences since this summer but came out as it has started to affect her in school with reading and writing. The school is informed now so we get their support. She is fine most of the day but mirnings and evenings when she needs to get dressed and bruch teeth it take long time as she has the ocd thoughts that result in doing her rituals. She get sad because she wants it to stop and we want to help her until we got to se a doc. She has no trouble falling asleep or eating and she goes to school as activities are dustracting and maked her think less about it. Any ecperience here how to help and not make it worse? Btw the book you are not your brain I recommend. warm regards a worried mother of 13 year old.

[Hidden]

As a parent of 2 kids with anxiety, I have experienced very good results talking to my kids about anxiety. The more they know and understand, and especially that it is treatable, the more they will be empowered and invested in their treatment. When they understand their body's chemicals, the amygdala's impact, etc, they naturally think of it more as a science experiment and not that they are "going crazy". It helps them make order out of the chaos. ADAA has several podcasts and webinars devoted to helping children, with a recent one about OCD:

Helping Kids and Teens Who Have OCD

(December 7, 2016)

Dr. Elspeth Bell explores adaptations of traditional CBT techniques specifically focused for working with clients with OCD. Elements addressed include approaches for engaging the kids and teens (and their parents) in the treatment process, the use of creative E/RP, and the inclusion of family in the treatment process. Watch the recorded webinar: attendee.gototraining.com/r...

[mayalove in reply to Hidden]

Thank you very much this information is really informative and has helped me a lot. It feels as a relief to understand and this was what I needed. Very greatful. 🙏🏼