He also believes that having a productive obsession leads to all sorts of mental states: euphoria when things are going exceptionally well; irritation when you feel thwarted.

The key is being prepared for these states and knowing how to handle them. Despite his enthusiasm for the positive aspects of obsession, he stresses that it is also important to recognise when something is not working. Being obsessed with a brilliant screenplay idea for 40 years without ever turning it into a film is not productive.

As for Caroline, she has managed to curb the extremes of her obsessive behaviour. 'There are still little signs of it,' she says. 'I'm trying to write a book, but instead of sitting at my desk for 12 hours a day, I do it in three to four-hour bursts and I make sure that I also make time for other things.'

Pursuing something with passion may not make you the next JK Rowling but, as Dr Maisel says, you don't know where it will lead until you give it a try. At the very least, it could be the key to a fulfilling life.

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