Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: New Help for the Family (Paperback)

by Herbert L. Gravitz (Author), Herbert L., ph .d. Gravitz (Author), Herbert L., Ph.D. Gravitz (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Review
Authoritative information and self-help on OCD

Dr. Gravitz1s book on obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) has been prai sed by numerous physicians, heads of organizations for dealing with the disorde r, and individuals afflicted with it. Incessant washing of hands is one often-c ited symptom of OCD. Continual arranging and rearranging of toys may be a sign of it in young children. Gravitz1s extensive work and writings on trauma a nd alcoholism as well as OCD are widely known in their respective fields. His book Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is written mainly for lay readers. As the su btitle--New Help for the Family--implies, the author deals with OCD in the pers pective of the network of the family. He doesn't identify the family as the cau se of OCD, but rather recognizes that family members are in nearly all cases im portant in an individual's overcoming OCD. The author covers the inter-related subjects of origins and causes of OCD, recognition of it, self-help, and treatm ent of the disorder as a family problem in a question-and-answer format which m ake its many facets, some of them somewhat complex and clinical, comprehensible to the general reader. For its comprehensiveness, accessibility, authoritative ness, and its compassion, the book is relevant and helpful for both sufferers of OCD and those trying to help them. -- Henry Berry Book Reviewer Editor/Publisher, The Small Press Book Review

Product Details

• Paperback: 225 pages
• Publisher: Partners Publishers Group; annotated edition edition (September 15, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0966110447
• ISBN-13: 978-0966110449
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 12.2 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #195,357 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

33 of 34 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Winning Publication for People with OCD and Family Members, March 23, 2000

By	Lorre Mendelson (USA) - See all my reviews

Herb Gravitz' book on OCD, New Help for the Family is a wonderful contribution to the mental health field. His writing and perspective lend compassion, clarity and understanding for all people involved in this anxiety disorder. Diagnosed, 6 months after starting a serious relationship, my Significant Other and I were able to glean new understanding and boundary setting with Dr. Gravitz help. I would like to see more medical professionals encouraging family members to read this book and get the assistance and recovery they need. I would recommend this book highly (and do!) to anyone who loves someone with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.

24 of 24 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Dr. Gravitz knew our family's OCD experience, November 22, 1998

By A Customer

The first time I read Obsessive Compulsive Disorder New Help for the Family, I could not believe that a total stranger knew so much about our family experience with OCD. For three years my focus had been on getting rid of my daughter's OCD and it wasn't working. In a loving and non-threatening way, Dr. Gravitz's book helped me to see that OCD does not have to ruin lives but can actually strengthen them. I feel that everything I need to know to achieve this strength is discussed in Obsessive Compulsive Disorder New Help for the Family. My initial reading brought a feeling of relief that someone actually understood what was happening and how I felt. Carefully and privately I was able to examine my role in my daughter's illness. The good news was I finally had something to work on that I had some degree of control over which was myself. In fact, I still do and this will be an ongoing process for me. I am grateful to have Dr. Gravitz's book to refer to on a regular basis. I believe that benefits will continue to come from practice, growth and changing old patterns that aren't working into new patterns of strength.

17 of 17 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars A much needed book for family members who live with OCD., November 30, 1998

By A Customer

At last a book for those who live with the torments of OCD! No longer is it necessary for families to surrender to OCD, to give up their freedom. This book gives hope to the family members and offers clear, concise ways to promote healing while living with OCD.

New Hope for the Families should be read by all professionals to reminded them that OCD is a family illness; professional must treat the entire family, not just the individual with the OCD. Herb identifies the pain and frustration of the family as they deal with the uncomfortable issues of this disorder and offers great suggestions to help families move beyond the influence of OCD.

This book is a must read for every family living under the web of OCD. Order your copy now.