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

By Martin Franklin, Jared Kant, Linda Wasmer Andrews

Book Overview

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.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0195316894
• ISBN13: 9780195316896
• Release Date: March 2008
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Length: 192 Pages
• Weight: 0.60 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.5" x 6.0" x 8.3"
• Age Range: 14 to 17 years
• Grade Range: Grades 9 to 12

Customer Reviews

Terrific Book about OCD and Adolescence

Jared Kant's powerful, candid account of growing up with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is riveting, sometimes heartbreaking, and at times laugh-out-loud funny. Adolescents struggling with OCD will find compassion and encouragement here, as well as practical, accurate information about how to get better with the right kind of treatment. An excellent book for teachers, parents, professionals - for anyone who wants to understand this potentially devastating but treatable neurobiological disorder.