Fletcher Wortmann

About

Fletcher Wortmann is the author of Triggered: A Memoir of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (St. Martin's Press, 2012). While in college, Fletcher Wortmann was diagnosed with crippling Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). His condition is characterized by runaway intrusive thoughts, with no visible compulsions. After receiving treatment at the OCD Institute at McLean Hospital in Massachusetts, Fletcher went on to receive his Bachelor's degree in English Literature from Swarthmore College in 2009; he wrote his senior thesis on the evolution of the superhero in American culture. He has since received his MFA. Fletcher lives and writes in Boston, MA and is a writer and concept designer for a mindfulness app. He remains cautiously optimistic.

Books by Fletcher Wortmann

Recent Posts

Tinnitus and OCD: Why Are They Both So Hard to Ignore?

A Personal Perspective: When they're present, both tinnitus and OCD intrusive thoughts feel constant and inescapable. But relief can be found.

How to Recognize and Respond to a Child’s OCD Scrupulosity

Scrupulosity is insidious, with distortions so subtle and persuasive that it can effectively invalidate a young person's sense of self.

OCD Scrupulosity in the Mind of a Churchgoing Child

A Personal Perspective: Children with OCD scrupulosity can feel ceaseless, searching anxiety and guilt, but may lack the language to say what they’re experiencing.

Why OCD Can Feel Logical

While OCD may appear irrational, the disorder actually follows a rigorous—almost algorithmic—internal logic.

Pascal's Wager: OCD and Scrupulosity

No easy solution exists to the devilish arithmetic of obsessive scrupulosity. Religious rituals can seem neurotic, and believers must build their faith on (at least some) doubt.

Peace for OCD’s Anxious Mind at Christmas

It’s inevitable. Holiday stress can trigger OCD. High expectations, reinforced by nostalgia, are inevitably disappointed when confronted with reality, and symptoms can erupt.

Surviving with OCD after COVID

Personal perspective: Returning to normal life after COVID will be challenging—but every day with OCD is challenging. We can cope and survive.

Managing OCD During the End Days of COVID

OCD makes it hard to objectively determine risk and appropriate management strategies. This makes navigating COVID's end particularly challenging.

Living With OCD as the Pandemic Wanes

For those with OCD, these days of adjustment and uncertainty may feel even more oppressive than the worst days of quarantine.

College Choice Must Be More Than Just a “Best College” Ranking

For some students, college can be an incubator for mental-health issues. Make sure the college you choose is prepared to prevent, anticipate, and respond.