Love is one of the most powerful feelings in the world. It alters not only our mind and body but also our entire reality. When in the right relationship, we are free, adventurous, and happy beyond limits. It can make us feel as if we are born again and are truly unstoppable. However, where there are such powerful feelings of happiness, there are also powerful feelings of anger, hate, and control. And no, we’re not just talking about a toxic relationship, we’re talking about obsessive love disorder.
Obsessive love disorder, also known as “OLD,” is a disorder where your love for someone becomes so obsessive that it’s toxic. With OLD, a once happy relationship can turn controlling, manipulative, and full of jealousy. This can be a terrifying situation and can feel like there’s no escape. Here, we aim to help you better understand what it is and how to get you or someone you love treatment for the disorder.
Common Signs of Obsessive Love Disorder
Someone with obsessive love disorder will treat their partner as property rather than as a human. While they may mean well in the beginning of the relationship, over time they will disregard this person’s well-being and individuality and instead attempt to control their entire life. This can be in the form of abuse, guilt, restrictive behavior, or narcissistic acts. Some of the most common signs in someone with obsessive love disorder include:
- Obsessive acts and thoughts towards one person
- Feeling the need to get rid of family and friends in this person’s life because they are a “threat”
- Controlling their life
- Constant insecurity
- Anger and jealously all the time
- Distrust
- Abusive behavior
Read more about other signs and symptoms of OLD in the article, “Obsessive Love: What to Know” by MedicalNewsToday.com.
Why Does Obsessive Love Disorder Happen?
Next, when it comes to understanding how OLD is developed, there appears to be no single cause. However, a few common reasons obsessive love disorder can develop is from personality disorders, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), childhood abuse, Erotomania, or attachment disorder. If you or a loved one think you have OLD, you should contact your doctor for a proper diagnosis. You can also take our “Are You or Your Partner Possessive?” quiz to help you better understand toxic habits that you may be unaware of in your relationship.
OLD Treatments
There are many different option for OLD treatments. But because no two diagnoses are the same for this disorder, treatments will vary. Once properly diagnosed by a doctor, you could potentially be prescribed medicine, such as anti-anxiety pills or anti-depressant pills, mood stabilizers, or even therapy. Of course, as mentioned above, it will all be unique and up to your doctor.
In conclusion, if you or someone you care for are showing obsessive love disorder symptoms, it’s best to see a doctor. Over time, this can help you overcome these tendencies and create a happier love life with a healthy base for a relationship in the future. And if you currently feel trapped in a controlling relationship and aren’t sure what to do, our article, “How and When to End a Controlling and Manipulative Relationship,” may offer insight on how to get out of the relationship safely and get the proper help you need in the meantime.
