Stuff That's Loud

April 15, 2020
A guidebook that seeks to empower those living with OCD. Clinical psychologists Sedley and Coyne give an authentic look at how different minds dealing with OCD function, including personal stories from teens and their family members. Incorporating techniques from Exposure Response Prevention and principles of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, this book provides tools and activities aimed at helping affected teens figure out how to live the lives they want. The direct, matter-of-fact approach runs the risk of triggering readers, something the authors acknowledge and even note as intentional; they explain that they trust readers to be able to handle the material and that not feeling ready to plunge in is an inherent part of the cycle of remaining trapped and anxious. The book does not proclaim to be a cure for OCD or even that any easy, external fix exists. That clarity in itself offers relief as it preempts the pressure readers may feel if they don't feel fully transformed after using the book. The book, which the authors encourage readers to use along with therapy, puts faith and the power to change in the hands of teens. A supportive, empathetic tone is present throughout, making it a useful guide for young people who may need help identifying and overcoming intrusive thoughts. An honest look at OCD, offering help in managing and overcoming it. (resources) (Nonfiction. 12-18)

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June 1, 2020

Gr 8 Up-According to clinical psychologists Sedley and Coyne, approximately three percent of teens have obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). In this straightforward guide, the authors address "stuff that's loud"-a catchy phrase for those thoughts, feelings, and sensations that take hold in individuals with OCD (often in a terrifying and intrusive manner). The tone of the text is conversational, and the message is encouraging with several anecdotes from teens. This book is divided into two parts, "Spiraling" and "Unspiraling." Part 1 explores how stuff that's loud can create confusion and surprises. Without adequate interventions and professional help, things can easily spiral out of control. Part 2 provides strategies teens can implement to form healthy relationships, such as using curiosity to step into the unknown, seizing the moment, and caring about people and things that matter. The chapter on how to deal with parents is insightful. Numerous black-and-white illustrations, of mixed quality, supplement the text. Additional resources consist only of a website for the International OCD Foundation and the website and Facebook links for the book. VERDICT This engaging self-help book is approachable and relatable and does not inundate readers with an abundance of medical and scientific terminology. A serviceable purchase for teen collections.-Jeanette Lambert, formerly at Nashville-Davidson County Sch., TN

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