The OCD Answer Book: Your Guide to ERP Therapy and OCD Relief

by Patrick B. McGrath

At any one time at least five million people in the United States are experiencing the symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a mental disorder defined by recurrent, unwelcome thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that OCD sufferers feel driven to perform.
The OCD Answer Book is an authoritative reference for these adults and their loved ones, providing sound advice and immediate answers to their most pressing questions.
-What is an obsession? -What is a compulsion? -Is it possible to "grow out" of OCD? -Does OCD run in families? -What increases my risk for OCD? -If I check something several times does that mean that I suffer from OCD? -I heard that OCD and strep throat might be related to each other. Is that true?
Written by an experienced psychologist in an easy-to-read Q&A format, The OCD Answer Book helps readers and their loved ones cope with OCD, conquer their fears, and seek therapy when necessary.

Genres: Psychology, Mental Health, Nonfiction

256 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Lexi Crockett · Rating 2 out of 5]

I can't decide how I feel about this book.

I'm sure it was great at the time it was written, but I think it's too outdated now. This would probably be a great read for someone who doesn't know much about OCD, but if you've already read other books on the subject, it'll probably be repetitive and hard to get through.

It did make me laugh at how specific it can be and the silly questions it brought up. "I really like the Sci-Fi Channel-people say I am obsessed with it. Does this mean I have OCD?" and the author answers it so seriously.

This book is probably good for other people, but it wasn't my favorite. I did learn some things though! I originally picked it up because I had been wondering about obsessions vs habits and that was a question promoted on the cover, and I now know the answer.

[Debby · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really good resource book for anyone who had been diagnosed with OCD or is in relationship with someone who has. OCD is a very complex anxiety disorder that can be more debilitating that most people realize. It's just not all about being a germiphobe or meticulous or a worry-wart. In addition, the "don't worry, be happy" cliche just doesn't offer any help or hope for someone suffering with OCD. I highly recommend this book to anyone, as you just may learn something about yourself or gain some insight into someome else's suffering in order to understand and to care.

[Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent resource for anyone with OCD or who has questions about it. The only negative feedback I've heard about this so far is from one client who thinks the show "Monk" has not been good for sufferers with OCD (Dr. McGrath says it may distort the disorder and perpetuate stereotypes, but at least it increases awareness).

[Kristina Forsha · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was really helpful to me. It talked about some of the symptoms of OCD I didn't know about and that I believe I have myself. For example one of the problems people with OCD have is hoarding. I hoard everything you can imagine. I realize now I need to get help before my disorder gets worse. I believe I have OCD now more than ever before.