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Welcome to our monthly newsletter where we curate insights and resources to help support teens struggling with anxiety. Each newsletter will highlight a different anxiety disorder while examining definitions, differentiations, and treatment possibilities. | |
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Dear Parent,
Have you ever been called “OCD” in an offhand or joking way? People mean it to be funny about focusing on details, but it’s heartbreaking when you have watched your child wash their hands over and over, count things over and over, or repeat any behavior over and over. Well-meaning family members may say “Just tell them to stop.” However, with OCD, you know that doesn’t work.
The wonderful news is there are effective therapy techniques that alleviate the symptoms of OCD. Anxiety Institute specializes in these advanced techniques that allow teens and young adults to overcome these anxiety-based behaviors.
We know that you can’t tell your children to just stop the behavior, but Anxiety Institute can show you how to help them stop.
There is both hope and help.
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THIS MONTHS TOPIC:
Types of Anxiety Defined
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
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OCD is not, as many people believe, just about petty fixations.
Instead, OCD is characterized by a person’s obsessive, distressing, and intrusive thoughts. These constant thoughts are often related to compulsions, which are tasks or rituals the teen feels they must do. People with OCD frequently believe that there will be negative consequences if they don’t complete the task or ritual.
OCD is a serious mental health condition that can be debilitating and make it impossible for your teen to complete their normal daily activities.
Watch the video below to learn how to recognize the emotional, behavioral, and physical symptoms of OCD and what the treatment options are.
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The gold standard for OCD is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and more specifically, exposure response prevention (ERP). These are specific models of therapy (different from talk therapy) that help your teen or young adult confront their need to perform these tasks.
The goal of treatment is to get the symptoms of OCD under control, so they don’t impact daily living. Many teens and college students find symptom relief through a combination of psychotherapy and medication, as well.
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Insight from a Professional
- While the thoughts and behaviors of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) may appear to be behavioral in nature, keep in mind that your child cannot “just stop” their OCD symptoms. They cannot control when their brain tells them to engage in ritualized or repetitive behaviors.
- Keep in mind that although your child is struggling with OCD, they are not defined by it. Try to acknowledge that although your child’s OCD symptoms are unwelcome and intrusive, they do not make your child unacceptable or intolerable to others.
For the Teen:
Tell yourself to remember, you are not your OCD. OCD is a form of anxiety; a body chemistry issue. It does not define you, it is not your fault and you can fight back. Having difficult thoughts is not a character flaw. Watch here and see how anxiety is not your fault.
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A Note from our Director
Living with OCD, whether as a child or as a parent, can be overwhelming at times. It's natural to have questions, uncertainties, and moments of frustration. However, it's also important to remember that you are not alone. There are countless parents out there facing similar experiences, and together, we can share knowledge, offer support, and empower each other to help our children thrive despite the challenges they may face.
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Dina
Nunziato, PhD
Chief Clinical Officer
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Further Reading
Is it just worrying or is it OCD? See Psychology Today’s definition of OCD and how to distinguish it from excessive worry.
What about perfectionism vs OCD? Here is an article that clearly distinguishes between the two conditions.
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In our new in-person weekly group participation sessions, clients will gain practical strategies to decrease thought patterns related to OCD and anxiety, increase self-care, and improve relationships. Using evidence-based therapeutic techniques, this weekly boost may be the solution you need. Available in our Greenwich, CT, and Madison, NJ, locations.
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2-Week Summer Classes for Back to School and College Transitions! | |
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School Avoidance and Transition
2-Week Booster Program: August 19th - August 30th - 4 Hours/Day
Our customized program addresses school challenges including avoidance, back-to-school anxiety, academic pressures, somatic symptoms and more. This intensive program offers a comprehensive approach to support your child's well-being.
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College Launch Program
2-Week Trransiton Program: August 12-23 - 4 Hours/Day
For college-bound students aged 17–21, we offer a one-week intensive program designed to ease the transition to college life. Whether your child struggles with anxiety, procrastination, time management, executive functioning issues, or interpersonal challenges, our program equips them with the tools they need to thrive in their new environment.
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For clinical questions or referrals,
please contact our Clinical Outreach Specialists:
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Learn more about why we’re passionate about treating anxiety. Connect with our therapists and founders to learn more about our approach at the Anxiety Institute. | |
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Anxiety Institute is a clinical research center specializing in acute anxiety disorders that uses advanced, proven techniques while nurturing the patient in their local home environment. Utilizing the most up-to-date, evidence-based treatments, our intensive services focus on treating teens and young adults, while coaching the parents who guide them. Locations in Madison, NJ; Greenwich, CT; and McLean, VA.
anxietyinstitute.com
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