Petra Gargano, known from the band Tiktak, shares her mental health battles in her latest book 'Comeback' (Tammi), where she discusses her experiences with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and the toll it took on her well-being. Her symptoms began in childhood, intensifying greatly after the birth of her first child, leading her to a breaking point where she finally sought help. Throughout the book, she elaborates on how her drive for perfection and the pressures from her upbringing shaped her struggles.

From an early age, Petra felt the need to excel in everything she did, fueled by her home environment, which emphasized the importance of education. Her upbringing left her feeling that her academic achievements were one of the few aspects she could control, particularly amidst instability at home. As her perfectionism grew, she found herself facing increasing anxiety and compulsions, oscillating between the need to succeed and the paralyzing fear of failure that accompanied it.

Petra's story serves as a poignant reminder of the hidden struggles many face regarding mental health. By sharing her candid experiences, she not only sheds light on the challenges associated with OCD but also encourages others to seek help and address their mental health issues. Her journey underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing these struggles early on and serves as an inspiration for those who might be in similar situations.