At Last Count: Alison Dotson’s Memoir

At Last Count is an honest and raw memoir written by Alison Dotson, dealing with the author’s personal journey with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). In this compelling book, Dotson eloquently shares her experiences of living with the debilitating mental illness, her struggles, and her triumphs.

The memoir’s main focus is on Dotson’s attempt to count every visible crack in the sidewalk, which she calls “at last count.” This seemingly innocuous behavior was, in fact, just the tip of the iceberg of the torture that OCD brought into her life. Throughout the book, Dotson candidly discusses her obsessive thoughts and compulsive rituals that consumed her daily life. She candidly recounts her experiences, from constantly washing her hands, to obsessively checking and rechecking to ensure that the gas was turned off, and everything in between.

Through her vivid and honest portrayal, Dotson reveals the relentless nature of OCD and how it infiltrated every aspect of her life. She talks about the shame and stigma associated with the disorder and the impact it had on her relationships, work, and mental well-being. Dotson brings to light the intense feelings of guilt, fear, and the overwhelming burden of trying to hide her illness from those closest to her.

At Last Count also delves into Dotson’s journey to seek help and the various treatments she underwent to manage her OCD. She paints a realistic picture of the challenges involved in finding the right therapy and medication that would provide her with some relief. It’s a story of persistence, hope, and the power of resilience as Dotson never gives up.

What makes At Last Count so powerful is Dotson’s ability to infuse humor and insight into her narrative. Despite the heavy subject matter, she manages to insert moments of levity and wit, making it an engaging and relatable read. Her writing is evocative and deeply personal, allowing readers to gain a genuine understanding of the debilitating nature of OCD.

Finally, At Last Count is a testament to the importance of increasing awareness and understanding of mental health conditions such as OCD. Dotson’s brave and unapologetic storytelling shines a light on the reality of living with a mental illness and breaks down the barriers of shame and silence that often perpetuate it.

Alison Dotson’s At Last Count is a poignant, inspiring, and eye-opening memoir that sheds light on the lived experience of OCD. Her candid storytelling and unflinching honesty make this book a must-read for anyone interested in mental health or anyone looking for a story of triumph in the face of adversity.