The Thought that Counts: A Firsthand Account of One Teenager's Experience with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

by Jared Kant

For the more than 2 million Americans with obsessive-compulsive disorder, the intrusive thoughts and uncontrollable behaviors can take a harsh toll, as author Jared Douglas Kant knows all too well. Diagnosed with OCD at age 11, Jared became ruled by dread of deadly germs and diseases, the unrelenting need to count and check things, and a persistent, nagging doubt that overshadowed his life.

In The Thought that Counts, Jared shares his deeply personal account of trial, tribulation, and ultimately triumph. Using anecdotes, narratives and sidebars, this book adds a human face to a complex disorder. Jared's funny, often touching, sometimes harrowing tale makes for compelling reading. Yet his memoir is only half the story. With the help of psychologist Martin Franklin, Ph.D., and veteran science writer Linda Wasmer Andrews, Jared paints the big picture for other teens with OCD. Drawing on the latest scientific and medical evidence, he explains how to recognize warning signs, where to find help, and what treatments have proved effective. Jared also offers practical suggestions on managing the symptoms of OCD at home, at school, and in relationships with family and friends. The result is both an absorbing memoir and a useful guide that will help to ease the isolation caused by OCD, assuring anyone recently diagnosed with the disease that, with commitment and hard work, they can overcome this illness.

Part of the Adolescent Mental Health Initiative series of books written specifically for teens and young adults, this volume offers hope to young people who are struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder, helping them to overcome the challenges of this illness and go on to lead healthy, productive lives.

Genres: Nonfiction, Psychology, Mental Health, Memoir, Autobiography

192 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Kylie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series. Quick easy reads that are great refreshers of the basics of disorders for MH professionals. Glad he opens with the “types of OCD” as it isn’t always the stereotypical germ-fearing one most picture. Provides a very quick intro of how it differs from Tics or PANDAs and gets into diagnosis and treatment options. Great laments terms for my intro mental health courses.

[Libby · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy this series and the way these books are written! Informative, broken down into easily digestible sections, and engaging! Great resource for those wanting to learn about OCD either for themselves or others!

[Ali · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I have to say is thank you. Thank you for writing this.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kant was brave to share his story and give others hope.

[Chloe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this because it looked interesting and it was, slightly concerned by some parts being relatable (I def don’t have ocd), although when I was inpatient I will say I did not get served jello once (just warm cookies, ice cream, and hot chocolate!!)

[Morgan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was way more informational than I thought it was going to be, though it wasn’t that boring. Jared’s story was really interesting and it was a really good first hand account of what it’s like to live with OCD. I would recommend this book to someone who needs a quick informational read about a mental health issue.

[Heidi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book provides some good, basic information about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). It's easy to read & designed for young adults. Resources are also provided for individuals with OCD and their families. A good overall introduction to OCD.

[Haley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really great life account about living with severe ocd.

[V · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can see how helpful this book can be to someone with OCD, or to someone who wants to learn more about it. Good resource.

[Roma Mehta · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you want to know what it's like to live with OCD, and what you can do about it, read this book.

[Mason Hewitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very detailed. Great book explaining OCD; what it's about, what you can do about it if you have it, and the story of this author dealing with OCD himself.