Relationship breakups and OCD

[Phoebe_wannabeParticipant]

Hello,

I am seeking peer support for navigating OCD around a relationship breakup. Throughout the breakup process OCD has had a vice grip on me. I was obsessing over whether breaking up was the right decision, feeling like the ‘bad guy’ in initiating the breakup and ruminating on events. Both myself and my ex-partner suffer with OCD. We both want to maintain some kind of contact going forwards because we care a lot about each other, they would like to return to a relationship but I am weary that that isn’t sensible right now. So there is a lot of grey area to be navigated right now, and I’m really struggling with it. I react with completely uncontrolled anxiety so much of the time trying to contact them, I’m obsessively vigilant not to be disrespectful but can’t even work out what the ‘respectful’ way to conduct myself is. My mindset is also to determinedly follow the ‘right’ path towards us being able to be amicable friends at least.

So much of my issues are clearly OCD, how do I get out of it? How do I calm the OCD down in this situation?

Best wishes to all

[weemanParticipant]

Hey hope things are going better for you now. How is it going now? It sounds like a situation that could be stressful. I’m always weary of trying friends things after a break up. Sometimes it works and other times not so much! How are things now?

[Forum Moderators]

Hi:

We’re sorry you haven’t had many replies yet and we want you to know that OCD Action offers other types of support for you.

You can contact the OCD Action Helpline and Email Service to talk to or email someone who understands OCD.

Our Helpline volunteers provide confidential information and support for people with OCD. Most volunteers have personal experience of OCD; all understand how it can impact your life. Contact our Helpline by:

• phone: 0300 636 5478
• email: support@ocdaction.orguk

Support groups for people with OCD offer a safe place where you can talk openly about OCD and support other people. Read information about UK-based groups here:

• Local independent support groups: https://ocdaction.org.uk/i-need-support/local-support/
• OCD Action Skype/Phone/Zoom support groups: https://ocdaction.org.uk/i-need-support/ocd-action-skype-phone-zoom-support-groups/

If you don’t live in the UK, look for groups near you on the International OCD Foundation (IOCDF) website. Under “Find Help”, choose “Listing Types”, then “Support Groups”: https://iocdf.org/

And please remember that you’re never alone – OCD Action is here to support you.

Forum Moderators

[Author]

Posts