How to Avoid an Obsession in a Relationship?

An obsession in a relationship tends to be distressful, uncomfortable, and tense situations for both partners. It is a strong feeling that one partner has for the other while aiming to control their partner. Often a person with an obsession can be aggressive, anxious, and impulsive. Constant worries about their partner make them unable to sleep, eat, and to do daily activities. Obsessions are complex and make it harder to comprehend if they occur in the relationship.

Sometimes with an obsession it can lead to jealousy and domestic violence. Also, mental health issues occur when someone has an obsession in the relationship. It makes someone fantasize more and follow their desires that they have towards their partner. Furthermore, a person with an obsession can have an over-compulsive disorder. Yet, obsessions can be managed and treated to improve the relationship between you and your partner.

Begin with accepting that the obsession is harming the relationship. Obsessions change one’s behavior and actions while losing themselves in the process. Continuous thoughts and fears make them feel more nervous and more stressed. Therefore, an obsessive-compulsive disorder needs to be treated with a professional psychologist to find the main cause of what it is stressing you out or your partner. Similarly, you or your partner can speak to a mental health professional and a counselor in behavioral services. 

Obsessive compulsive disorder may be a result of genetics, changes in the brain, or family experiences, child abuse, or excessive stress. Obsessions may also cause anxiety disorder, depression, substance abuse, nervous tics, or other mental health disorders. Although obsessions cannot be prevented in a relationship, it is necessary to speak to your partner about your concerns, fears, and have an open discussion in a calm manner. Practice self-love, loving kindness meditation, or other methods to help you or your partner relax. Do not withdraw from your activities, hobbies, self-care, and from your daily routine. 

Be realistic in your relationship and respect each other. Avoid arguing with your partner. Always communicate with them with patience, kindness, and calmly. Not all partners with an obsession seek control but may seek reassurance. Constantly questioning where your partner is and what they do is not a solution to repairing the relationship. Both partners must have determination to manage the obsession from sabotaging the relationship.

It is possible to have a relationship, but it requires labor and support from both partners. Work on trust issues and communication issues if it arises in the relationship. Understand what an obsessive-compulsive disorder is and how you can support your partner. Be honest with yourself and with your partner. Follow the advice from your psychologist or their mental health professional for monitoring the obsession.

Obsessions cannot always be eliminated. Therefore, keep an eye on your partner’s behavioral changes, sleep disturbances, and irritabilities. Seek professional and medical help if your partner or you have negative thoughts that might be suicidal. Also contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Here are more resources about obsessions. 

10 Steps to Overcoming Obsession in a Relationship:

10 Steps To Overcoming Obsession In A Relationship (lifehack.org)

How to Break an Obsession-Pscyhology Today:

How to Break an Obsession | Psychology Today

Obsession Psychology-Causes, Types, Treatments-Psych Central:

Obsession Psychology: Causes, Types, Treatment (psychcentral.com)

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