To Lesli

[Guest guest]

Hi Lesli,

I admire your courage in thinking about sharing details of OCD recovery

with friends and family at the holidays. Aren't we supposed to count our

blessings this time of year? You'll probably find you get a few calls or

notes back about things going on with family and friends they may not have

otherwise shared.

Take care,

in San Diego

[Guest guest]

Hi Lesli,

Thank you for responding. My daughter is behind with her social skills as

well and I was wondering if you could elaborate a bit on what you have done

to work with her? At seven, does she enjoy other children and build

relationships?

I agree with you and the others who say I need to find another behavioral

therapist. The problem is that we live in a small city and a very rural

state, West Virginia. I think I will probably have to drive somewhere to get

her to a good therapist, but I'll do what has to be done.

Thanks again,

Crystal

Re: To Crystal

HI Crystal,

Welcome to the list! You mentioned separation anxiety, which is one of

the OCD symptoms listed in Mitzi Waltz's book about OCD in children. My

daughter suffered it, too.

Her compulsions were different than those of your daughter, but she too

started showing symptoms at a very young age, around three. She was

diagnosed at five and started CBT at five and a half.

I would urge you to try to find a behavorial therapist who is

experienced in treating kids with OCD and who uses CBT (Cognitive

Behavorial Therapy.) I don't think your daughter is too young to be

diagnosed and the sooner you begin treatment, IMO, the better.

My daughter is now a much healthier and happier seven-year-old. During

the past year, we did a great deal of work with her on social skills,

and it has really paid off. I feel that because she was so attached to

me during the toddler and preschool years, and was dealing with so much

anxiety at the same time, she was not able to develop her social skills

at a pace with those of other children.

You are doing well to help your daughter with the separation anxiety

now, and to recognize how her compulsions are beginning to impair her

time with other children.

Best of luck to you,

Lesli (SF Bay)

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