Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder in Children and Adolescents: Early Detection in Primary Care Settings

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common and potentially debilitating condition affecting approximately 1%-3% of children and adolescents.1,2 It is characterized by obsessions and/or compulsions that are time-consuming or cause clinically significant distress or impairment in school, social, family, or other important areas of functioning. OCD can have a lasting impact on both academic and social functioning. For instance, engaging in rituals can lead to isolation, tardiness, family conflict, sleep alterations, and procrastination. Children with untreated OCD are also at elevated risk of developing substance use, episodes of depression, suicidal ideation and attempts.