Transforming How We See and Support OCD
Obsessive compulsive disorder is more than what people think—through lived experiences, education, and training, we’re replacing stereotypes with real understanding and practical support
Obsessive compulsive disorder is one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions—often reduced to jokes or myths that leave people feeling isolated. We’re here to change that. By sharing real stories, offering compassionate education, and equipping professionals with the tools they need, we’re creating a more accurate, supportive, and hopeful narrative around OCD.
Whether you’re navigating OCD yourself or supporting someone who is, this space is for learning, connection, and change.
In-Depth Guides
Start Reading About OCD!
Real Stories, Real Connection
What Is It Like To Live With OCD?
Watch Now and Learn!
Webinars and Courses About OCD
Lisa W. Coyne, PhD, breaks down the many types of OCD obsessions and compulsions, explores potential causes and risk factors, and explains how exposure and response prevention therapy is often used to treat the disorder. Watch here now or learn more about this training.
OCD Resources
OCD can feel isolating, and stigma often makes it harder to reach out for help. Learning about the condition, exploring treatment options, and connecting with understanding communities can help people manage symptoms and regain a sense of control.
For individuals living with OCD and the people who care about them, guidance and support can reduce feelings of isolation, challenge misconceptions, and offer reassurance that help, compassion, and hope are available.
Support Organizations
These organizations offer resources and information on obsessive compulsive disorder that you may find helpful.
International OCD Foundation
IOCDF is a leading nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of people affected by OCD and related disorders. The organization provides education, support resources, and referrals to evidence-based care.
Not Alone Notes
Not Alone Notes is a peer-led nonprofit that supports individuals living with OCD through storytelling, education, and community connection. The organization focuses on lived experience to reduce isolation and stigma.
OCD Action
OCD Action provides support, information, and advocacy for people living with OCD and related conditions. The organization offers peer support services, educational resources, and public awareness efforts aimed at improving understanding of OCD.
OCD Gamechangers
OCD Gamechangers is a nonprofit dedicated to building community, raising awareness, and inspiring hope for people living with OCD. The organization brings together advocates and mental health professionals through events and partnerships to develop innovative ways to support the OCD community and combat stigma and misrepresentation.
Featured Resources
From toolkits to podcasts and more, here are a few of the great online resources available to learn more about obsessive compulsive disorder.
OCD Resource Hub – International OCD Foundation (IOCDF)
Explore guidance on OCD symptoms, treatment approaches, and support options, along with curated links and tools for managing daily challenges.
Deep Dive on OCD – Made of Millions
Delve into a comprehensive overview of OCD, covering symptoms, subtypes, causes, and treatment options alongside lived experience perspectives.
OCD Stories Podcast
Hear expert interviews and real-life experiences that illuminate OCD management strategies and reduce stigma.
The OCD Confessional Podcast
Listen to candid, humor-forward conversations about living with OCD, blending personal stories, practical coping tools, and insights from expert guests.
OCD in the Digital Age – Made of Millions
Discover research-based insights into OCD awareness, stigma, and lived experience, highlighting social and generational perspectives.
OCD Community Forum – NOCD
Engage with a community of peers sharing lived experiences, coping strategies, and daily realities of living with OCD.
Suggested Reading
From evidence-based perspectives to lived-experience memoirs, this selection of books is a great starting point if you want to expand your understanding of obsessive compulsive disorder.
Freedom From Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
by Jonathan Grayson, PhD
This comprehensive guide presents exposure and response prevention (ERP) as the foundation of effective OCD treatment. Grayson explains both the mechanics and emotional challenges of exposure work, clarifying why avoidance and reassurance reinforce symptoms. The book is widely regarded as a definitive resource for understanding evidence-based OCD care.
The Man Who Couldn’t Stop: OCD and the True Story of a Life Lost in Thought
by David Adam
Blending memoir and science writing, this book chronicles the author’s personal experience with obsessive compulsive disorder alongside an exploration of how OCD has been understood across history and research. Adam offers an intimate portrayal of intrusive thinking while situating his story within a broader psychological and neuroscientific context.
Understanding OCD
by Leslie J. Shapiro, LICSW
With a clear overview of obsessive compulsive disorder, this book outlines how symptoms develop and why they persist. Shapiro combines clinical insight with accessible explanation, making the book a helpful entry point for readers seeking a grounded understanding of OCD.
The Imp of the Mind: Exploring the Silent Epidemic of Obsessive Bad Thoughts
by Lee Baer, PhD
Written by a leading OCD researcher, this book focuses on intrusive and taboo thoughts that are often misunderstood or hidden due to shame. Baer explains how these thoughts function within OCD and clarifies why their content does not reflect intent or character. Readers looking for a more skills-based companion may also consider Baer’s Getting Control.
Brain Lock: Free Yourself From Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior
by Jeffrey M. Schwartz, MD, with Beverly Beyette
In this influential book, the author introduces a cognitive-behavioral framework for OCD grounded in neuroscience and neuroplasticity. Schwartz outlines a four-step method designed to help individuals recognize obsessive thoughts, disengage from compulsive behaviors, and strengthen alternative neural pathways. This book has played a significant role in popularizing brain-based explanations of OCD.
The Perfectionist’s Handbook: Take Risks, Invite Criticism, and Make the Most of Your Mistakes
by Jeff Szymanski, PhD
This book examines perfectionism, a trait that commonly overlaps with obsessive-compulsive symptoms. Szymanski explores how rigid standards and fear of mistakes reinforce anxiety, offering insight into cognitive patterns that often complicate OCD and related conditions.
When a Family Member Has OCD
by Jon Hershfield, MFT
Focused on the impact of OCD within family systems, this book examines how accommodation, reassurance, and conflict can unintentionally reinforce symptoms. Hershfield provides guidance grounded in evidence-based treatment, helping families support recovery while maintaining healthy boundaries.
Breaking Free of Child Anxiety and OCD: A Scientifically Proven Program for Parents
by Eli R. Lebowitz, PhD
Developed by the creator of the SPACE (supportive parenting for anxious childhood emotions) program, this book centers on reducing parental accommodation rather than changing a child’s behavior directly. The approach offers a research-backed framework for supporting children with anxiety or OCD while strengthening long-term resilience.
Stuff That’s Loud: A Teen’s Guide to Unspiraling When OCD Gets Noisy
by Ben Sedley, PhD, and Lisa W. Coyne, PhD
Written specifically for adolescents, this guide explains OCD in developmentally accessible language while normalizing common fears and frustrations. Drawing from cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance-based approaches, the book helps teens understand obsessive thinking and respond more effectively when symptoms escalate.
