Triggered

Triggered is a memoir chronicling Fletcher Wortmann's experiences with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The book follows his journey from childhood through college, documenting the progression and impact of his mental illness. The narrative tracks Wortmann's attempts to find effective treatment while navigating academic pressures, social relationships, and family dynamics. His account includes time spent at McLean Hospital's OCD Institute and his encounters with various therapeutic approaches. Wortmann writes with dark humor and stark honesty about living with intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. The text alternates between personal anecdotes and factual information about OCD, providing context about the condition's true nature beyond common stereotypes. The memoir stands as both a personal testament and a broader commentary on mental health stigma in American society. Through Wortmann's individual story, larger questions emerge about identity, control, and the distinction between one's thoughts and one's self.

Readers describe this OCD memoir as raw and unflinching in its portrayal of intrusive thoughts and anxiety. Many connect with Wortmann's self-deprecating humor and pop culture references while discussing serious mental health challenges. Readers appreciated: - Clear explanations of how OCD manifests beyond stereotypes - Authentic voice that balances dark content with humor - Practical insights into exposure therapy treatment - Validation for those with similar experiences Common criticisms: - Too many gaming/geek culture references - Structure feels scattered at times - Some found the humor inappropriate for the subject matter Ratings: Goodreads: 3.9/5 (1,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (90+ ratings) Sample review: "Finally, someone who gets that OCD isn't just hand-washing. His description of intrusive thoughts helped me feel less alone." -Goodreads reviewer Critical review: "The constant pop culture jokes undermined the seriousness of the topic." -Amazon reviewer

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🔹 Author Fletcher Wortmann was diagnosed with severe OCD while attending Swarthmore College, where his condition became so debilitating that he had to take a medical leave of absence. 🔹 The book's title refers to "exposure and response prevention" therapy, where patients deliberately trigger their anxieties as part of treatment - a method that proved crucial to Wortmann's recovery. 🔹 Despite common perceptions, only a small percentage of OCD sufferers experience the stereotypical cleaning/organizing compulsions; many, like Wortmann, struggle with intrusive thoughts and purely mental rituals. 🔹 Wortmann wrote the book when he was just 24 years old, making him one of the youngest authors to publish a memoir about living with OCD. 🔹 The author uses dark humor throughout the book to discuss serious mental health issues, drawing inspiration from comedians like David Sedaris and combining autobiography with social commentary.