Are you living or working with someone who has obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)? Perhaps they're your parent or child, close friend, parent, or colleague. OCD can lead both sufferers and those around them to feel isolated, overwhelmed, and helpless. However, you are not alone. The Essential Guide to OCD enables families, caregivers, and friends to provide invaluable support for those with OCD. It aims to inform readers about OCD and give clear and compassionate coping strategies. With greater understanding of the condition and its effects on the individual, readers will feel better equipped to face OCD manifestations. As they do, commonly experienced emotions such as bewilderment, frustration, and sadness will gradually subside. This practical guide includes interviews with relatives, friends, and colleagues of individuals living with OCD. It also explores the latest medical advances and effective treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure and response prevention (ERP), along with insight from mental health professionals. Armed with knowledge and hope, readers will feel prepared and empowered to support their loved ones living with OCD.