The 'heartbreaking' OCD that can make you doubt your relationship
Relationship OCD is gaining awareness, but limited data means little in known about how common the condition is.
By BBC News
Relationship OCD, a condition that can make people constantly doubt whether they are in the right relationship, is gaining awareness despite limited data on how common it is. The condition, also known as ROCD, is a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder where intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviours attach specifically to a person’s romantic relationship or partner.
Unlike ordinary doubt, which is usually specific and resolves once the issue is addressed, ROCD doubt is described as intrusive, repetitive and reassurance-proof, often becoming louder the more a person tries to settle it. Common signs include excessively worrying about being in the right relationship, repeatedly checking one’s attraction to a partner, feeling the need to confess doubts, and hyperfixating on a partner’s perceived faults.
Experts say the best way to manage ROCD is to accept these thoughts rather than fight them, avoid reassurance-seeking behaviours such as checking attraction or confessing doubts, and postpone trying to figure out whether the relationship is right. People are advised not to over-analyze their feelings, monitor their anxiety around their partner, or spend hours searching for signs of compatibility, but instead to give themselves time and space to get to know the other person.
Embracing not knowing the answers and enjoying learning about the partner is recommended, with mental health specialists suggesting that talking openly with a partner, trusted friend, family member or professional can be helpful. The BBC reports that while awareness of relationship OCD is growing, the lack of data means little is known about how common the condition is.