Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a severe and debilitating anxiety disorder that affects one person in 40. It affects not only how people feel or think, but also how they behave. OCD symptoms -- such as compulsive hoarding or handwashing -- often evoke uncomfortable emotions in family and friends.

This guide discusses:

• what OCD is and what causes it
• treatments, including both cognitive and behavioural therapy and medication
• recovery and relapse prevention
• family involvement

The guide is a thorough and helpful introduction...