Because of the way obsessive-compulsive disorder is portrayed in the media, many people believe it is simply a personality quirk. In reality, this disorder can cause severe distress for people who have it, as well as for their loved ones. Through relatable text, augmented by informative sidebars and full-color photographs, this volume helps readers understand how people with OCD use rituals to cope with distressing intrusive thoughts. A list of organizations to contact gives people who are struggling with this disorder resources to connect with others who understand what they are going through.

Chapter 1: Uncovering a hidden epidemic - Chapter 2: Getting an accurate diagnosis - Chapter 3: Living with OCD - Chapter 4: Causes and pharmacological treatment - Chapter 5: First-line treatment for OCD - Chapter 6: Alternatives and challenges in OCD treatment.