Overcoming Compulsive Washing: Free Your Mind from OCD (Paperback)

by Paul R., Ph.D. Munford (Author) "Until recently, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) was considered rare..." (more)
Key Phrases: reasonable washing, practice ritual prevention, fake urine, Betty's Story (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Product Description
Although obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is receiving more attention in the media than ever before, most books on the subject treat this complex range of symptoms generically, without attention to the particular needs of particular categories of behavior. From this third book in New Harbinger's series on specific OCD behaviors, readers who feel a compulsion to wash and clean will learn powerful, effective strategies to control these behaviors.

Fear of contamination leads washing sufferers to compulsively avoid places and situations that cause their anxiety-public restrooms, doorknobs, handshaking, and so forth. To subdue the contaminating effects of the world around them, some sufferers have been known to shower for up to four hours or to wash their hands until they are raw. Ultimately, these behaviors prohibit some sufferers from leaving their homes. This book helps readers identify their specific ritualistic compulsion. Then it helps them to stop obsessing by experimenting with exposure to their fears. The book includes ways to troubleshoot particularly difficult situations and educate the family and loved ones of OCD sufferers to support their loved ones' recovery.

From the Publisher
The third book in New Harbinger's series addressing specific obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) behaviors, this book helps people who wash compulsively eliminate or reduce their urges to wash and clean. It helps them overcome their fear of contaminating others or being contaminated by dirt, germs, or poisons.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 161 pages
• Publisher: New Harbinger Publications; 1 edition (July 2005)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1572244054
• ISBN-13: 978-1572244054
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 5.9 x 0.8 inches
• Shipping Weight: 7.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #278,113 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A well known expert on OCD writes a simple, step by step guide on how to treat OCD, November 8, 2005

By	Susan Haverty (Sacramento, CA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Dr. Munford, a member of the OCF Scientific Advisory Board; has written an important book, useful for both clinicians and clients alike. I found this book invaluable in helping me direct my treatment for people with contamination fears. I've recommended it to parents who find it helpful in understanding what Exposure and Ritual Prevention is. It gives clear, simple, step by step instruction on how to gradually face OCD fears. Whereas, other books tell you about OCD, this book tells you how to treat OCD. Priceless!!

5.0 out of 5 stars Michael A. Tompkins, San Francisco Bay Area Center for Cognitive Therapy, May 2, 2009

By	Michael A. Tompkins "San Francisco Bay Area C... (Oakland, CA) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

The problem of compulsive washing is one of the most debilitating symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder but often one of the most straightforward to treat. In this book, Dr. Munford offers hope to those who suffer with this debilitating problem. The book is sensitive, straightforward, and clearly reflects the wisdom of a clinician who has helped hundreds of people who suffer with compulsive washing. If you suffer with this problem, take heart. This book can help you.