School Library Journal Review
Gr 9 Up-Dotson shares her personal story of a lifetime struggling with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in this honest, often-humorous title. The author suffered with an obsession about religion and with a fear of harming others, as well as depression, for more than a decade before she was diagnosed. By sharing her story, she aims to reassure teens with OCD that they aren't alone and to encourage them to get help as soon as possible so that they can lead richer, fuller lives. The book not only includes Dotson's personal story but also covers practical information about OCD, steps to getting help, therapy and medication, and checklists of symptoms. Dotson employs an informal, conversational tone that will resonate with teens as she discusses OCD in general and her own personal experiences. Stories from other young adults diagnosed with OCD interspersed throughout break up the text and add alternate perspectives. This title provides clear, concise content and would be an excellent addition to most teen collections.-Joy Poynor, Rogers Public Library, AR (c) Copyright 2014. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Booklist Review
Dotson, who lives with treated obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), is a wise and compassionate model for teens and young adults who have been newly diagnosed with OCD or are considering seeking out a diagnosis. Each brief chapter includes passages from essays authored by young people diagnosed with OCD describing their symptoms, fears, treatment plans, and the state of their current mental health. Dotson's own condition went undiagnosed until she had graduated from college and became overwhelmed by the symptoms she had lived with from childhood. Her personable, friendly tone is a particular highlight, though it's never overly casual Dotson treats seriously the issues of self-harm and suicide, and she refers readers to hotlines and resources in such cases. Even and fair, this highly accessible introduction to specific symptoms, accompanying problems, various treatment options, and ongoing health-management tips respects the reader and never makes light of the potentially serious effects of the condition. This would also be an ideal guide for friends and family members of those afflicted. An extensive list of resources and references concludes.--Goldsmith, Francisca Copyright 2010 Booklist