Liz Trondsen doesn’t have OCD, but her son, Chris, does — and as is often the case, the disorder didn’t just affect him; it rippled through the entire family. Liz shares her deeply personal story in this episode of the Get to Know OCD podcast, opening up about the moment her son’s struggles nearly claimed his life and how that single event became a turning point for their entire family.

Liz talks candidly about the guilt and helplessness she felt as a parent, realizing she missed the signs of her son’s suffering. She also reflects on the steep learning curve of understanding OCD and the role she had to play in Chris’s recovery — one that he credits for saving his life.

This is a story of shock, guilt, hope, resilience, and breakthrough — a raw and inspiring conversation about what it takes to support a loved one with OCD. 

Struggling to support someone with OCD? Need professional help? Consider visiting  https://learn.nocd.com/podcast to learn about our best-in-care treatment options. 

Show notes: 
0:00 Intro

1:39 How Liz became an OCD advocate 

4:04 The role families play in OCD treatment 

8:35 Feeling guilt as a parent

13:06 When Liz realized her son had a problem

15:05 The turning point in Chris’ recovery 

16:29 Making a short film

17:57 OCD advocacy as a life’s purpose

19:04 Treating OCD takes time away from the whole family

23:36 Life after “recovery”

26:33 Watching a child go through therapy 

31:04 Liz’s own therapy experience

34:22 Liz advice for parents feeling regret

38:09 Co-parenting a child with OCD

41:37 Educating others about OCD

42:48 Liz’ advice for parents

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