Relationship OCD

January 13 2024 TalktoAngel 0 comments 936 Views

Relationship OCD, also known as R-OCD, is a type of OCD in which a person has intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors that are connected to their romantic relationship. The variant of R-OCD may be Homosexual Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (HOCD). It is suggested to seek Online Counseling with the Best Clinical Psychologists, get emulation & diagnosis, and co-morbidity if any.

Relationship OCD (ROCD) is a subtype of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) characterized by recurrent, unwanted intrusive thoughts, doubts, or images about the strength, quality, and "rightness" of one's romantic relationship. These thoughts often lead to repetitive behaviors and compulsions, such as checking, seeking reassurance, and analyzing the relationship, in an attempt to alleviate the distress caused by the obsessive thoughts. However, these behaviors ultimately reinforce and maintain the cycle of obsessive thinking. ROCD can be highly distressing and can significantly impair one's ability to function in daily life and relationships. It is essential to get a detailed evaluation by a good clinical psychologist at TalktoAngel

ROCD treatment plan includes a combination of psychotherapies like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectic Behaviour therapy, and medication like Benzodiazepine or Mood Stabilizers.

The disorder can lead to recurrent thoughts about relationship worries or fears. Whether their relationship will last or their spouse truly loves them may be a question that the person has. These activities can then result from these beliefs, which are intended to provide comfort. This pattern can be very stressful for the person who is having OCD symptoms, but it can also be quite stressful for the relationship as a whole.

If you have OCD, you are aware that your symptoms can frequently prevent you from starting and maintaining sexual relationships. Many OCD sufferers are single, and those who are in a relationship frequently express a great deal of interpersonal stress.

Symptoms of ROCD

The following are some relationship OCD warning signs and symptoms:

Obsessive ideas about your lover or relationship

Always questioning whether your partner is truly in love with you

Excessive concern for the happiness or welfare of your partner

Constantly considering your partner's shortcomings

Contemplating the possibility of finding a different, better companion

Constantly looking to your companion for assurance

Having bothersome ideas about your connection or spouse that keep you from concentrating

These obsessions and compulsions must interfere with your daily activities and capacity to function for you to be diagnosed with OCD. Your doctor or therapist will need to rule out any other illnesses that could be causing your symptoms, such as an anxiety disorder, a depressive disorder, or an obsessive-compulsive personality disorder.

Causes

The exact causes of Relationship OCD (ROCD) are not fully understood, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors.

Some researchers suggest that ROCD may be caused by an imbalance of certain chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin, which can affect mood and behavior. There is also some evidence that ROCD may be associated with an overactive or over-sensitive "monitoring system" in the brain responsible for detecting and responding to threats.

Other theories propose that ROCD may be linked to past experiences, such as childhood attachment issues or traumatic relationships, which can affect an individual's ability to form and maintain healthy romantic relationships in adulthood.

Some studies also suggest that OCD and ROCD can be the result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. A family history of OCD or other mental health disorders can increase the likelihood of developing ROCD. Environmental factors such as stress, traumatic life events, and other factors may also play a role in the development of ROCD.

It's important to note that regardless of the cause, with proper treatment and therapy, most people with ROCD can learn to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Treatment

The primary treatment for Relationship OCD (ROCD) is a type of therapy called Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT is a form of talk therapy that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their ROCD symptoms.

Within CBT, there are specific protocols such as, "Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)" which is considered the gold-standard treatment for OCD, including ROCD. In ERP, individuals are gradually exposed to their obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors in a controlled and safe environment. They are taught to resist engaging in compulsive behaviors in response to their obsessions. Through repeated exposure and practice, individuals can learn to tolerate the distress caused by their obsessive thoughts without resorting to compulsive behaviors.

Additionally, medication such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) can be used in conjunction with therapy to help reduce symptoms of ROCD. SSRIs are a type of antidepressant that can help regulate the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin, which can affect mood and behavior.

It's important to note that the treatment for ROCD can take time and effort, and it's not always a quick process. However, with the right treatment plan and therapist, most people with ROCD can learn to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

It's also good to know that involving the partner in Online Therapy can benefit the individual with ROCD and the relationship.

Contributed by: Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Clinical Psychologist & Life Coach & Ms. Aditi Bhardwaj, Psychologist