Gail: Adolescence and OCD

[Guest guest]

Gail, you wrote:

Now that , and so many other of our

> children, have entered their

> adolescence, I have a few questions. How does the

> monthly cycle affect OCD

> symptons? Is there likely to be a certain time in

> 's cycle that she

> will be more likely to have OCD episodes than other

> times? She has had

> several periods - all on a " regular " schedule - and

> I am trying to get a

> handle on whether the OCD behavior is related to the

> cycle. Any thoughts?

Gail, there is very little scientific literature that answers your questions,

but in general, it is believed that many, but not all, female OCD sufferers

experience worsening of symptoms premenstrually. Some, in contrast, may

actually improve too. This worsening is not exclusive to OCD and is very common

among depressed females. In fact, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) earned

its name due to this phenomenon.

It might be helpful to keep a daily diary of symptoms over a few months to see

if there is a pattern in waxing an waning of symptoms. The key is to be as

objective as possible in recording, to avoid a self-fulfilling prophecy. If

there appears to be a consistent relationship, it might be helpful to anticipate

and plan ahead for these times--cut back on activities, potentially stressful

events, reduce potential triggers, build in more soothing and relaxing times

etc.

If you or anyone are interested in PMDD, I know that Dr. Greist at the OCIC

is writing a guide on it--I'm not sure when it will be published.

Hope this is helpful.

Happy New Year to all.

Aureen

>