How to prepare for a video visit about Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - Mild to Moderate

Audience: pediatric

If your child has mild to moderate Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a video visit with a healthcare provider can be a helpful way to discuss symptoms and get advice. This guide explains how to prepare for the visit so it goes smoothly. During the visit, the provider may ask about your child's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to understand OCD better. You can share any worries or questions you have. Preparing ahead by noting symptoms, daily challenges, and past treatments helps make the most of the time. While telemedicine can support ongoing care and guidance, it cannot replace in-person exams or urgent medical attention if needed. If your child shows signs of severe distress or danger, seek immediate help. This guide also lists red flags to watch for and what telemedicine can and cannot do. After the visit, following the provider's advice and scheduling follow-ups can help manage OCD effectively.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Thoughts or talk about self-harm or suicide — seek emergency care immediately.
• Severe anxiety or panic attacks preventing daily activities — get urgent medical help.
• Refusal to eat or drink leading to dehydration — go to emergency services.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing OCD symptoms and concerns.
• Providing education about OCD and coping strategies.
• Recommending therapy options and monitoring progress.
• Answering questions about treatment side effects.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Managing emergencies like suicidal thoughts or severe distress.
• Performing physical or neurological examinations.
• Making urgent medication changes without prior assessment.
• Diagnosing complex or severe mental health conditions requiring in-person evaluation.

What is Mild to Moderate OCD in Children?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a condition where a child may have unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and feel the need to repeat certain actions (compulsions) to ease anxiety. Mild to moderate OCD means these symptoms happen regularly but may not severely disrupt daily life. Understanding these symptoms helps you talk clearly with the healthcare provider during the video visit.

How to Prepare for the Video Visit

Before the visit, write down your child's symptoms, when they happen, and how they affect daily activities like school or play. Note any treatments or medicines tried before. Find a quiet, private place with good internet for the call. Have a list of questions or concerns ready. Make sure your child is comfortable and knows what to expect during the visit.

What to Expect During the Video Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your child's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to OCD. They may also ask about family history and other health issues. Be honest and detailed. The provider may suggest strategies, therapy options, or medicines to try. They will also discuss next steps and follow-up plans.

Red Flags That Need Urgent Care

Some signs mean your child needs immediate in-person care or emergency help:

If you notice these, call emergency services or go to the nearest hospital right away.

What Telemedicine Can and Cannot Do for OCD

**Can handle:**

**Cannot handle:**

After the Video Visit: What to Do Next

After the visit, follow the provider's advice carefully. This may include starting therapy, taking medicines, or tracking symptoms. Schedule any recommended follow-up visits. Keep notes about how your child responds to treatments and share updates with the provider. If symptoms worsen or new concerns arise, contact the healthcare team promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your child's OCD symptoms and how they affect daily life.
• List any past treatments, medicines, or therapies tried.
• Prepare questions or concerns to discuss with the provider.
• Find a quiet, private space with good internet connection for the video call.
• Make sure your child understands and is comfortable with the video visit process.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's treatment recommendations.
• Track your child's symptoms and any side effects of treatments.
• Schedule and attend follow-up appointments as advised.
• Contact the provider if symptoms worsen or new concerns develop.
• Seek emergency care if red flag symptoms appear.

FAQs

What should I do if my child feels too anxious during the video visit?

It's normal for children to feel nervous. Try to keep the environment calm and reassuring. You can pause the visit if needed and explain to your child that the provider is there to help. If anxiety is severe, mention this to the provider during the visit.

Can therapy for OCD be done through telemedicine?

Yes, many therapy types, like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be effectively done via video visits. Your provider can guide you on how to access these services remotely.

Will my child need medicine for OCD?

Not always. Treatment depends on symptom severity and impact. Sometimes therapy alone helps. Your provider will discuss options and what might be best for your child.

How can I support my child at home?

Learn about OCD and its symptoms. Encourage your child to share feelings and be patient with their challenges. Follow the provider's advice on routines and coping strategies.

What if I don't have a private space for the video visit?

Try to find a quiet corner or room where you won't be disturbed. Using headphones can help maintain privacy. If privacy is not possible, discuss this with your provider to find alternative solutions.

Sources

1. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder — Mayo Clinic.
3. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Children and Teens — American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP).
4. Telehealth: Delivering Care Safely During COVID-19 — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has urgent or severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention from a healthcare professional.