The Weight of Thoughts

By Gemma Elessar

Ryan thought she could control her world. But when the thoughts started spiraling, the rituals became all-consuming, and the panic refused to let go, her life began shrinking-room by room, step by step.

In this raw and honest YA novel, Ryan navigates the gripping reality of obsessive-compulsive disorder, from the silent loops and intrusive thoughts that dominate her mind to the small, terrifying steps toward recovery. As she withdraws from friends, family, and even herself, she must confront her fears and find the courage to face the world-one step at a time.

With the support of a diverse group of peers in an intensive outpatient program, Ryan learns that setbacks do not define her and that survival is a victory. A story of struggle, resilience, and hope, One Step at a Time is a deeply human portrait of mental health, showing young readers that they are not alone in their experiences.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0FXLZKN11
• ISBN13: 9798271345241
• Release Date: October 2025
• Publisher: Independently Published
• Length: 148 Pages
• Weight: 0.46 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 6.0" x 9.0"