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Learn DBT Skills In A Group
Weekly sessions are available. Grouport offers therapist-led dialectical behavior therapy skills groups online. The first 12 weeks covers fundamental DBT skills.
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Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a common, chronic, and long-lasting disorder characterized by recurring, uncontrollable, distressing thoughts (obsessions) and behaviors (compulsions). While the impact of OCD on an individual's daily functioning is widely acknowledged, less attention has been given to the disorder's effects on interpersonal relationships. This article explores how OCD can impact relationships, including romantic partnerships, family dynamics, and friendships.
One of the most profound ways OCD can impact an individual's life is within the realm of romantic relationships. Unrelenting obsessions and time-consuming compulsions can place a significant strain on partnerships. A person's partner may struggle to understand the nature of OCD and may feel helpless or frustrated, leading to stress in the relationship.
The intrusive nature of OCD can also manifest in relationship-centered obsessions, such as constant doubt about a partner's fidelity or suitability, leading to incessant reassurance-seeking behaviors that can burden the relationship. Additionally, the time spent performing compulsions can interfere with shared activities, leading to feelings of isolation or neglect in the non-OCD partner.
Within the family context, the symptoms of OCD can similarly cause tension and misunderstanding. Family members may become inadvertently involved in a loved one's compulsive rituals, perpetuating the cycle of OCD. Alternatively, they may be at a loss regarding how to support their relative, leading to helplessness or frustration.
Children with OCD may experience difficulty in their relationships with siblings, who may not understand the disorder, and may feel neglected due to the increased attention their sibling requires. Parents, too, may feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to support their child best while also managing the demands of other family members.
Friendships and other social relationships can also be affected by OCD. Friends may struggle to understand why the individual with OCD avoids social events or exhibits seemingly strange behaviors, resulting in a strained relationship.
Those with the disorder may withdraw from social activities due to the fear of being unable to control their symptoms in public, leading to social isolation.
OCD can exert a significant influence on all types of relationships. Intrusive obsessions and compulsive behaviors can cause misunderstanding and stress among partners, family members, and friends. However, these relationships can be navigated successfully with education, communication, and professional support. Those close to someone with OCD must educate themselves about the disorder and for the individual with OCD to seek appropriate treatment. This collaborative approach can foster understanding and support, strengthening relationships in the face of OCD.
Grouport Therapy provides online group therapy and OCD online group therapy sessions using exposure response prevention therapy (the gold standard for OCD treatment). Our licensed therapist leads weekly group sessions conducted remotely in the comfort of members' homes. According to participant feedback, 70% experienced significant improvements within 8 weeks.
Join our community and work together towards a brighter future. Sign up for one of our courses today and begin your journey towards meaningful, lasting change and renewed hope.
Due to licensing restrictions, our online group therapy sessions are for Florida, New York, and New Jersey residents. If you are not a resident of either state, consider our dialectical behavior therapy skills group. It is a therapist-instructor-led online group that will teach you strategic new skills to replace behaviors and emotions causing friction in your daily life and relationships. It is excellent for interpersonal connections and building social skills concerning relationship issues.
