Maggie struggles with obsessive compulsive disorder. Her anxiety manifests as Otis, a nagging multicolored character who spends his day whispering insecurities and encouraging repetitive tasks.
In Maggie’s Friend Otis, read how Maggie began to rethink her relationship with Otis and question the need for her compulsions.
ABOUT OTIS
At a young age, Maggie Grace began struggling with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. OCD disrupted her life, affecting everyday activities such as riding in a car or being tucked into bed at night.
As a rising sixth-grader, the disorder progressed to the point where Maggie and her mother made the decision to homeschool. As an assignment, Maggie’s mother asked her to draw what OCD looks like in her mind. A few hours later, Otis was conceived.
Otis became the face of the disorder. More importantly, Otis represented something separate from Maggie. OCD isn’t Maggie, but now is personified by “someone” she tolerates. Maggie began saying, “Mom, Otis is really giving me a hard time today,” or Maggie’s mother would say, “I’m not talking to Otis anymore right now.” OCD isn’t gone, but the family found a way to live with Otis.
Today, Maggie is a junior in high school. She enjoys dancing and spending time with friends and family, but Otis remains a lifelong companion. In an effort to help other kids coping with OCD, Maggie wanted to introduce Otis to the world through this book.
“This is a great book for children who feel alone in their struggles with mental health issues. It is also a good resource to help children identify their own Otis.”
Jeanna Smith, LMFT
“What an amazingly, well written book! The author has an uncanny ability to take a complex topic and simplify it in a manner that is both presentable to and understood by children. Sweet dreams, Otis…”
Patty Nodine, LPC
“What a gift this book is to all children! Everyone has an Otis, but children with anxiety (specifically Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) are often tormented by intrusive thoughts that create intense fear followed by compulsions that interrupt their everyday life. One of the first steps to successfully gain control of OCD is to help the child separate his/herself from the scary thoughts through externalization. In this book, Otis beautifully represents the way a child can begin to have faith in his/herself and start the necessary process of doubting their worries. It’s a practical and effective approach for OCD, but applicable to all kids.”
Liz Whatley, LISW-CP
Maggie & Friends, LLC encourages any parent or guardian with questions or concerns to please first consult with your physician or locate your local mental health organization through nami.org/find-support