perfectionism

On the field

Back to School and Back On the Field

Posted on by Annalise

As children and teens head back to the classroom, many are also heading back to the field, the gridiron, the court or the rink.

It is important for parents and coaches to familiarize themselves with the difference between helpful and unhelpful stress and anxiety as it relates to performance in sport.

Student athletes feel tremendous pressure both in and out of the classroom.  Awareness and open, positive engagement is key in helping kids manage their anxiety in a variety of competitive situations.

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Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

What Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Looks Like in Children

Posted on by Suzanne Allen

Repetitive behaviors and thoughts often occur in children and are typically based on age. Preschool-age children may have preoccupations and routines around meals, bedtimes, and schedules. School-age children often create routines around rules to games, sports, and school. Children of all ages may collect objects, have repetitive interests or hobbies. These thoughts and behaviors are developmentally normal and can often help children manage stress.  So, how can you tell if your child is experiencing normal childhood behavior or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

OCD is a psychological condition that impacts between 1 and 3% of children. The average age of onset is 10 years old, however children as young as six can be diagnosed. These children have unwanted thoughts, feelings, and fears that are called obsessions. Obsessions cause anxiety and to alleviate this distress, children engage in external or internal behaviors called rituals.

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