Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental disorder that is characterized by the presence of obsessions and compulsions that generate significant discomfort in the life of the person who suffers from it. OCD is generally thought of in relation to obsessions such as the fear of contamination, the need for symmetry, or the fear of harming others. However, there is a lesser-known but equally impactful subtype: relational OCD.
Symptoms of relational OCD
Relational OCD is characterized due to obsessions and compulsions related to interpersonal relationships. People who suffer from relational OCD experience an intense fear of hurting loved ones, acting inappropriately in social situations, or not being empathetic enough. These obsessions are usually accompanied by mental or behavioral compulsions that seek to prevent or neutralize the anxiety generated by these obsessions.
Some common symptoms of relational OCD include:
- Recurrent related obsessions with emotionally hurting others
- Fear of saying something offensive or inappropriate
- Need to constantly apologize or seek approval from others
- Fear of not being what sufficiently empathetic or understanding
- Avoidance of social situations for fear of causing harm
These symptoms can significantly interfere with the person's daily life, affecting their interpersonal relationships, their work performance and emotional well-being. It is important to recognize these symptoms and seek professional help if relational OCD is suspected.
Causes of relational OCD
As with conventional OCD, the exact cause of the Relational OCD is not fully clarified. It is believed that there is a combination of genetic, biological, environmental and psychological factors that may contribute to the development of this disorder. In the specific case of relational OCD, some possible causes have been identified that may play a role in its origin:
1. Traumatic experiences
People who have experienced trauma in their interpersonal relationships, such as emotional abuse or manipulation, may develop obsessions and compulsions related to avoiding repeating those traumatic situations. The fear of causing harm may be rooted in past experiences that had a deep emotional impact on the person.
2. Perfectionism
Excessive perfectionism and the need for control in interpersonal relationships can trigger obsessions related to doing or saying the wrong thing. People with high levels of perfectionism may feel constant pressure to perform impeccably in their interactions with others, which fuels the obsessions and compulsions of relational OCD.
3. Genetic and biological factors
Some studies suggest that OCD has a genetic component, meaning that people with a family history of OCD may have a higher risk of developing this condition. At a biological level, differences in brain activity and neurotransmitter levels have been identified in people with OCD, although more research is required to fully understand these mechanisms in relational OCD.
Treatment of relational OCD
Treatment of relational OCD usually involves a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, and emotional support. It is important to address both obsessions and compulsions to help the person manage their anxiety and improve their quality of life. Some common treatment strategies include:
1. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
CBT is the most recommended form of therapy for the treatment of relational OCD. This therapy focuses on identifying and modifying the distorted thoughts that fuel obsessions and learning new ways to cope with anxiety without resorting to compulsions. Exposure with response prevention is a technique commonly used in CBT for OCD, which involves gradually exposing the person to anxiety-producing situations and helping them resist the urge to perform compulsions.
2 . Medication
In some cases, medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed to help reduce the symptoms of relational OCD. These medications can help regulate neurotransmitter levels in the brain and decrease anxiety and obsessions. It is important to remember that medication must be prescribed and supervised by a mental health professional.
3. Emotional support
Support from friends, family, or support groups can be essential in the recovery process of a person with relational OCD. Having a supportive and empathetic support system can help a person feel supported on their path to recovery and reduce the feeling of isolation that often accompanies the disorder.
Conclusion
Relational OCD is a subtype of OCD that is characterized by obsessions and compulsions related to interpersonal relationships. People who suffer from relational OCD experience an intense fear of hurting loved ones or acting inappropriately in social situations. If you suspect that you may be experiencing symptoms of relational OCD, it is important to seek professional help to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. With the right support, it is possible to learn to manage the symptoms of relational OCD and improve quality of life.