It’s not easy living with intrusive thoughts and OCD. Trying to date people and run a normal life can be even harder.
Intrusive thoughts are unwanted, intrusive thoughts that can cause a great deal of anxiety. OCD is a mental health condition that can cause people to have obsessive thoughts and compulsions.
Dating can be difficult for anyone, but it can be especially difficult for someone with intrusive thoughts or OCD. It can be hard to open up to someone new about your thoughts and compulsions. You might worry that they will think you’re weird or crazy.
I was really excited when I met her. She was funny, smart, and beautiful.
We hit it off right away. I asked her out on a date, and she said yes. I was thrilled. But then I started to worry.
What if I said something wrong? What if I did something wrong? I tried to push the thoughts away, but they kept coming back. I didn’t want to screw this up, so I decided to cancel the date.
I was really disappointed, but I just couldn’t shake the feeling that something would go wrong.
Ben, US
It can also be challenging to keep up with the demands of a relationship while also dealing with OCD. You might have to miss out on date nights or other activities because you need to spend time compulsively washing your hands or checking the locks on the door.
I wanted to go out with a woman I liked but struggled because of weird OCD rituals I was ashamed of. I would avoid touching anything that might be dirty.
I would also compulsively check things to make sure they were safe. This made it difficult to be around other people and I often felt isolated. My OCD made it hard to relax and enjoy myself. I was always on edge, worrying about whether or not I was doing something wrong.
Simonne, New Zealand
It’s important to find a partner who is understanding and supportive. They should be willing to listen to your concerns and help you find ways to cope with your OCD.
Tips for OCD and dating
- Don’t try to hide your OCD from your date. It’s important to be honest and open about your condition from the beginning.
- Be upfront about your needs and expectations. Let your date know what works for you and what doesn’t.
- Relax and be yourself: The most important thing is to relax and be yourself. Your date will be able to sense if you’re tense and it will make the evening less enjoyable. Just take a few deep breaths and remember that you’re a great catch!