Relationships
How to shut down the intrusive thoughts as they pop up.
No relationship is perfect.
Naturally, this can harm your relationship in a number of ways.
All relationships have their ups and downs including moments of doubt, uncertainty, and ambivalence, psychotherapistDr.
Avigail Lev, tells Bustle.
ROCD can manifest in many ways.
You may spend days worrying about whether youre with the right person or not due to one tiny incident.
You may have doubts over the longevity of your relationship every time your partner irritates you.
When youre out with other couples, you may compare yourself and wonderwhy you dont seem as happyas others.
Knowing what triggers relationship OCD can help you better manage any intrusive thoughts you have.
Here are some common triggers to be aware of and how to deal with them, according to experts.
Feeling Attracted To Someone Else
Its totally normal to be attracted to other people.
For instance, maybe youre questioning your choice of partner because theyrenot giving you enough physical affection.
If thats actually the case, tryasking for morehugs, kisses, or massages.
When youre in a social situation, try your best to remain calm.
That way, it can help you process what youre experiencing.
Fighting With Your Partner
Constant arguingin a relationship isnt healthy.
However, its important to vent your frustrations now and then.
According to Lev, people with ROCD may make a huge deal out ofnormal relationship fights.
They may even bottle up their frustrations until all their anger and resentment come pouring out.
This can lead to a huge blow up conflict that can make you question your relationship as a whole.
If this happens, Lev suggests finding new strategies to express your emotions in a positive way.
Use nonviolent communication to express your needs and to make specific requests in your relationship.
Its normal tofeel a little doubt and jealousy.
Nothing will change if you dont voice your desires.
If this is the case, its important to determine if there are any underlying issues.
For instance, maybe youre just overworked or maybe its a certain time of the month.
If so, try repeating affirmations to yourself that can help you overcome negative thoughts.
In some cases, you may want to consider a professional.
If you dont get along with your partners friends or family, it can trigger your ROCD.
When you find this happening, psychotherapistChristine Scott-Hudson, MA MFT ATR, suggests practicing self-regulation skills.
My relationship is with them and not their friends.
Being Irritated By Your Partners Flaws
Nobody is perfect.
When you have relationship OCD, its hard to remember that.
Instead, every little thing that irritates you could seem like such a huge deal.
confirm that you make your appreciations specific and that you express them to your partner.
For folks who have relationship OCD, a variety of different situations can trigger an onslaught of intrusive thoughts.
