The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on people’s mental health, particularly those who suffer from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), according to Indian psychologists. Children and young people with OCD, anxiety, and depressive symptoms experienced their condition worsen during the pandemic, a study found.
There are no concrete figures to suggest how many children were affected by OCD during the pandemic, but experts have seen an increase in such cases. Parents also play a role in the increase in anxiety in children.
With the pandemic, people have become obsessed with hygiene, leading to obsessive thoughts in children. Modernization and social media have also contributed to anxiety, as children are exposed to unsolicited advice on social media.
Children who have not developed their language skills during the pandemic are prone to anxiety and tantrums. A symptom of OCD is rigidity in thought patterns, wherein children are particular about arranging certain things.
However, psychologists cautioned against using the term OCD for every particular about something, as there are certain traits to qualify for the condition.
Additionally, social media has played a role in increasing anxiety and fear among youngsters. The pandemic has also led to speech development issues in some children, particularly those born during the pandemic.