Demystifying Relationship OCD: Everything You Need To Know
Do you feel overwhelmed and anxious when thinking about relationships? Are you constantly worrying that something is wrong with your relationship? If so, you may be dealing with relationship OCD. ROCD is a type of OCD that involves intrusive, repetitive, and distressing thoughts related to doubts and uncertainty about a romantic relationship. In this blog post, we will demystify ROCD, discuss the signs and symptoms, and explain how to find help and support.
What is Relationship OCD?
At its core, ROCD involves obsessions with doubts and worries about the quality of the relationship and/or one's partner. These obsessions can be centered around thoughts that one’s partner is not right for them, or that they could do better in their relationship. Common examples of this include questioning whether they are still in love with their partner, whether they are compatible enough, or if someone else could be a better match.
In addition to these obsessive thoughts, ROCD can also lead to compulsive behavior such as checking for “evidence” that the relationship is wrong or repeatedly seeking reassurance from friends and family. The main aim of these compulsions is to reduce the distress caused by intrusive thoughts. However, this can lead to an unhelpful cycle of compulsions and obsessions, which can interfere with the individual’s daily life.
The Common Symptoms Of Relationship OCD
People suffering from Relationship OCD (ROCD) experience obsessive intrusive thoughts, doubts and fears related to their relationship. This can manifest in a variety of ways, including:
- Obsessing over the perfection of the relationship: People with ROCD are often obsessively focused on the idealization of the relationship and their partner, leading them to constantly question whether their relationship is as perfect as it should be.
- Hyper-critical of the relationship: People with ROCD may become overly critical and judgmental of their relationship, constantly questioning its validity and strength.
- Unjustified anxiety over the relationship: People with ROCD often feel intense anxiety about their relationship even when there is no evidence that something is wrong.
- Intrusive thoughts about the partner: People with ROCD are often consumed by intrusive thoughts about their partner, questioning whether they truly love them or are just staying in the relationship out of habit.
The Treatment Options For Relationship OCD
For those living with relationship OCD, the best course of treatment is typically a combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication. CBT helps people to understand the intrusive thoughts they’re experiencing and how to manage their responses to them. It also encourages them to challenge their irrational beliefs and shift their focus to more productive behaviors. This also is done through using exposure and response prevention. Medication such as SSRIs can help decrease the frequency and intensity of intrusive thoughts.
Other helpful strategies for managing relationship OCD include relaxation techniques, mindfulness exercises, and journaling. Relaxation techniques, such as progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing exercises, and guided imagery can help reduce feelings of anxiety and improve overall mental well-being. Mindfulness exercises, like yoga and meditation, can also be useful in reducing rumination and giving people a sense of control over their thoughts and emotions. Writing down your thoughts and worries can provide clarity and can be a powerful tool for combating the irrationality of intrusive thoughts.
So, this is all you need to know about relationship OCD. If you want more information, get in touch with OCD and Anxiety Online.
