How can OCD affect relationships? by Robyn Tamanaha, LMFT

Left untreated, individuals living with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) might notice that their obsessions and compulsions impact their relationships. 

Asking for reassurance 

The intrusive thoughts can become so consuming and persistent that the individual feels like they must obtain reassurance from others to ease their worries and fears. This could look like asking the other person for reassurance to ease their doubts; however, once is not enough, and the individual might continue to ask the same question or ask any time that they have a doubt about something.

 Having loved ones to do their compulsions 

At some point, the individual doing compulsions is not enough and they might have the desire for others to do behaviors in the manner that they would. It might start out as frustration that the other person is not doing a task in a particular way. The individual might also ask the other person, not only if they did it, but how. This can lead their loved ones to become distress, and if it persists, impact their relationships. 

Being the one to do tasks and responsibilities 

The compulsions that the individual engages in are in order to neutralize their intrusive thoughts, so there is particular manner in which their compulsions (or behaviors) are performed. Some might find that they want to be the person to complete the tasks that trigger their OCD. 

Relationship OCD subtype 

Relationship OCD is one subtype of OCD, that includes 1) intrusive thoughts about their partner and/or 2) intrusive thoughts about the relationship. Some common intrusive thoughts are what I accidentally cheat, what if we're not meant to be together, what if I'm not attracted to my partner, etc. What distinguishes these intrusive thoughts from common concerns about a relationship is that there is no evidence for these thoughts, the excessiveness of the thoughts, and the time spent ruminating about these thoughts.  

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Disclaimer: This information is being provided to you for educational and informational purposes only. The topics being discussed are meant as a self-help tool for you own use. It is not psychotherapy or counseling. This information is to be used based on your own judgment. If you need to speak with a professional, you should find one local to you and contact them directly.