Living with OCD

Gr 6–8—Discussions on mental health still have much stigma attached to them, yet are quite often a reality for young people. Six conditions are explored in depth, striving to alleviate some of that stigma. Through both real and fictitious accounts, readers are given a broader picture of each disorder, its symptoms and diagnoses, various treatment options, and the realities of daily life for those living with it. The value mindfulness provides as a coping strategy is examined, and contact information for many support agencies is provided as well. The authors expand their coverage across all ages; disorders often associated with childhood or adulthood do not limit themselves to those specific stages but instead often have deep-seated roots and far-reaching repercussions. Overall, the focus is holistic and touches on ways that mental illness can affect more than just the person diagnosed.