When OCD Recovery Feels Worse Before It Feels Better
AT Parenting Survival | Raising Kids with OCD & AnxietyShow Notes
Starting treatment for OCD can be one of the most hopeful steps a family takes, but it can also be one of the most confusing. Many parents expect that once their child begins therapy, exposures, or a new approach at home, things should immediately improve. Instead, they are often surprised when anxiety spikes, meltdowns increase, or OCD seems louder than ever. In this episode, I explore why OCD recovery can initially feel worse before it feels better. OCD thrives on avoidance, distraction, reassurance, and other coping strategies that provide short term relief. When children begin treatment, they often stop relying on those unhealthy coping mechanisms and start facing their fears directly. While this is an important part of recovery, it can temporarily make anxiety and distress feel more intense. I explain how OCD is not a passive disorder. It actively fights back when challenged. It may convince children that therapy is making them worse, tell them not to talk about their fears, flood them with more intrusive thoughts, or create intense distress during ERP and other evidence based approaches. Parents using strategies like SPACE may also notice an increase in emotional reactions as OCD loses its grip. Parents will learn why these early bumps in the road are often a normal part of the recovery process and how to prepare for them. I share practical ways to set expectations, build coping skills, develop a plan for tolerating distress, communicate effectively with therapists, and support children without pushing them too far too fast. If you have ever wondered whether treatment is working because things seem harder than before, this episode will help you understand what may really be happening and how to stay the course with confidence. Resources Mentioned in Episode: Free Anchor Series for parents Click here to get your PDF Handout for this episode YouTube video on how OCD sabotages therapy YouTube video on how OCD shuts down communication My Books My Kids and Teen OCD Course
*** This podcast episode is sponsored by NOCD. NOCD provides online OCD therapy in the US, UK, Australia and Canada. To schedule your free 15 minute consultation to see if NOCD is a right fit for you and your child, go to https://go.treatmyocd.com/at_parenting
This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be used to replace the guidance of a qualified professional.
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More from AT Parenting Survival | Raising Kids with OCD & Anxiety
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