Relationship OCD, a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder, can affect both individuals and their partners. People with this condition often experience intrusive thoughts about their relationships. They may doubt their love, commitment, or compatibility with their partner.
These persistent doubts are irrational. However, they feel very real to those experiencing them. Here, let’s discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatment options for relationship OCD. We will shed light on how it can impact relationships and what can be done to manage it.
Symptoms of Relationship OCD
The primary symptom of relationship OCD involves obsessive doubts and fears related to one’s romantic relationship. These obsessions can be about a number of things. They may question whether the relationship is the “right” one, whether their partner is truly loved, or even compare them to other potential partners.
These obsessive thoughts lead to compulsive behaviors designed to alleviate anxiety. Examples include repeatedly asking a partner for reassurance, obsessively thinking about the relationship, or avoiding certain situations in fear of triggering doubts.
Some common symptoms include:
- Constantly needing reassurance from a partner, friends, or family
- Repeatedly analyzing the relationship or the partner’s behavior for “signs” of uncertainty
- Excessive mental reviewing of past experiences, conversations, or actions in the relationship
- Extreme fear of making the “wrong” choice, even though there’s no real evidence of problems
- Fear of being emotionally unfaithful or questioning your partner’s loyalty
These obsessions and compulsions disrupt normal relationship dynamics and create unnecessary tension. Over time, the affected individual may feel isolated. They struggle with their fears while attempting to maintain the relationship.
Causes of Relationship OCD
The causes of relationship OCD are not entirely known. However, there are any number of things that might contribute to its development. One of the most important is the presence of genetic predispositions to OCD in general.
Research has shown that individuals with a family history of OCD are more likely to develop this disorder. This suggests a hereditary link.
Past traumatic experiences or stressful life events may also play a part. For instance, a traumatic breakup, or the fear of experiencing emotional abandonment, can trigger anxiety in individuals prone to OCD tendencies.
Relationship-related trauma can manifest in a distorted view of romantic interactions. This will lead to persistent, obsessive fears about relationships.
Furthermore, certain personality traits, like high perfectionism or a tendency to overthink, may make individuals more susceptible to relationship OCD. Those who are more sensitive to uncertainties or to anxiety in their personal life can find it difficult to handle the typical ups and downs of relationships.
Treatment for Relationship OCD
Effective treatment for relationship OCD involves several components, mainly focusing on managing obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely used methods for treating OCD.
Specifically, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) helps individuals confront their anxieties and stop engaging in compulsions. ERP involves deliberately exposing individuals to situations that might trigger their OCD symptoms. It helps them learn to resist performing the usual compulsion, such as seeking reassurance or mentally reviewing their relationship.
Mindfulness techniques can also help those dealing with relationship OCD by teaching them to remain in the present moment and detach from intrusive thoughts. Mindfulness enables individuals to recognize obsessive thoughts for what they are—irrational and passing. This helps prevent those thoughts from defining their emotional experience.
In some cases, medication like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be used. These medications help regulate the brain’s serotonin levels, which are often imbalanced in those with OCD.
For couples, couples counseling can provide valuable support as they work through the complexities of a relationship affected by OCD. Therapy can address how the condition influences both partners and teach them communication strategies to alleviate the strain it causes.
Working Through Relationship OCD
At Stillar Psychological, we specialize in treating different forms of OCD, including relationship OCD. If you’re looking for a supportive environment to address the impacts of relationship OCD, we invite you to contact us.
We offer therapy services to help individuals and couples at both our South Edmonton location and West location. Whether you’re just starting your journey or need ongoing support, we are here to help you.
Call us at 780-999-2023 to reach out today and take the first step toward understanding and managing relationship OCD with the help of our experienced therapists.
