Loving someone can be a blissful feeling. When the other person doesn’t pay back the required sentiments, it can be extremely destructive for you. Almost everyone has experienced the intensity of infatuation and the pain of a broken heart. Those who have obsessive love disorder (OLD) find it hard to separate their loved ones from themselves as a result, treating them like objects or possession.
What is obsessive love disorder (OLD)?
Obsessive love disorder (OLD) describes a condition in which a person becomes obsessed with an individual and will do anything to get them, whom they may be in love with or may not be. You might become obsessive about protecting your loved ones, or even be like a controller over them.
Even though OLD has no separate psychological or medical description, it is often associated with other kinds of mental health disorders. Feel free to consult your doctor if you think you or someone you love might have the disorder. Therapy can reduce the symptoms and keep relationships happy.
Read: Broken Heart Syndrome
Symptoms of obsessive love disorder
Here are some symptoms of OLD:
- A powerful attraction to one individual
- Obsessive Thoughts for that person
- Having the desire to “protect” a person you love
- Actions and thoughts of possessiveness
- Feeling extremely jealous over interactions with others
- Low self-esteem
- Anxiety
- Rejections from Loved one
People with OLD may also have difficulty accepting rejection. Sometimes the symptoms worsen when a relationship ends or if you are rejected by someone.
The following are additional signs of OLD:
- Keep messaging the person that you are interested in with texts, emails, and phone calls
- Constantly seeking reassurance
- Because of the obsession with one person, it is difficult to form or maintain friendships or contact with family members
- Keeping a close eye on the behavior
- Deciding what the other person does, what they wear, and what they do
Causes of obsessive love disorder
Love obsession is caused by a combination of factors. However, it may also be caused by other mental health problems like:
Attachment disorders
A person with this disorder has issues with emotional attachment, for example, a lack of obsession or empathy with another person.
There are different types of attachment disorders, including reactive attachment disorder (RAD) and Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder (DSED) and both of these disorders occur during childhood particularly after a negative experience with either a parent or a caregiver.
When you’re in DSED, it’s easy to be overly friendly and not be cautious around strangers. RAD may cause you to experience stress and difficulties interacting with others.
Recommended: How to stop worrying?
Borderline personality disorder
Individuals with this condition tend to have disturbed self-esteem, accompanied by severe mood swings. A person who is suffering from borderline personality disorder might quickly change the mood from angry to happy within minutes or hours.
They also experience depression and anxiety. With obsessive love disorders, personality disorders can change an individual’s relationship with someone on the extremes between love and hate.
Check: Signs of Self-Obsessed Person
Delusional Jealousy
An individual with this disorder demonstrates an insistence on things that are already proven to be false, based on delusions (events or facts you are convinced to be true). Delusional jealousy plays a role in obsessive love by making us believe that the other person feels the same towards us, even if they have made it clear that this is not the case.
An article from Trusted Source in 2005 illustrates that delusional jealousy may be connected with alcoholism in men.
Erotomania
Erotomania is an intersection between obsessive love disorders and delusional. The person suffering from erotomania believes someone famous or of higher social status has fallen in love with him/her.
As a result, they may start harassing the other person by visiting their workplace or home. The Comprehensive Psychiatry reports that erotomania can make a person even unemployed and can isolate with few friends.
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is associated with obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors combination. Despite how minor they may seem, these severe conditions can interfere with your daily routine.
In addition to that, OCD can make you reassure yourself constantly, which might negatively affect your relationships.
Some people have relationship obsessive-compulsive disorder, where obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors center around their romantic relationships. Although this subtype of OCD is not officially recognized, there are some symptoms that suggest some individuals may have it.
Check detailed: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessional Jealousy
In contrast to delusional jealousy, obsessional jealousy occurs when an intelligent mind gets fixated on the idea that a partner has cheated. In response to infidelity concerns, repetitive and compulsive behaviors may occur as a consequence of this preoccupation.
These practices take after OCD more so than delusional jealousy. You can suffer significant distress or face problems in your ability to perform basic daily tasks.
Everything you should know about: Obsession and Compulsion
Obsessive love vs. real love
Since centuries, philosophers have been unable to define “true” love. The criteria that distinguish real love from obsessive love cannot likewise be summed up in a single list. Love has enormous power. People who are in love feel a rush of dopamine and other powerful brain chemicals.
Love can be so powerful that it can drive someone to become obsessed with holding on to or controlling the one they love. While sometimes it may appear that they worship their partner, they become angry or jealous at the first sign of threat.
As a consequence of obsessive love, the partner becomes an object of consumption and ownership rather than being considered an equal. People with obsessive tendencies may have a tendency to love another person due to their own needs, rather than out of love and concern for them.
Consequently, they may not care about each other’s well-being.
Obsessive love also has the following characteristics:
Compromise and negotiation are essentials of real love, but obsessive love requires submission to the demands of a loved one.
Obsessive love involves physical or emotional violence against the other person, while real love prioritizes their well-being.
Loving someone involves accepting their flaws and recognizing their worth. It is possible to worship as well as refuse to acknowledge any flaws in obsessive love.
The object of obsessive love may sometimes appear perfect one moment, and then evil the next. Splitting occurs when a person sees the object of their love as both good and bad simultaneously.
People who are obsessed with love have a hard time letting go. In spite of the fact that breakups are painful and can result in unhealthy behavior, those who feel obsessive love may not be able to accept the end of that relationship.
An obsessional relationship may involve something that doesn’t really exist, such as a celebrity or a stranger.
Related: What is a Toxic Relationship
Healthy love vs. obsessive love: what’s the difference?
It is important to note that healthy love is different from obsessive love because the latter causes extreme feelings of infatuation to expand to obsessions. Mental illness affects about 0.1% of adults who experience delusional love and jealousy as a symptom of their mental illness. It is common for people who suffer from delusional jealousy to interpret even the most mundane of events as proof that their spouse or romantic partner is unfaithful, such as a coworker saying hello to their spouse or a passerby looking at them. There is a high risk of developing delusional jealousy in male alcoholics. An obsessive love a woman develops for someone she knows is more likely than for someone she doesn’t know. Obsessive women often fall in love obsessively with those who have helped them. It appears that men and women commit violence equally often when obsessive love involves violence. People with psychiatric disorders, particularly those with delusional disorders, are at higher risk of developing obsessive love, as well as those with no full-time employment.
Is there a connection between obsessive love disorder and narcissism?
It is only an obsession that links narcissism with obsessive love disorder. It appears that both conditions are characterized by the same levels of love, praise, obsession, and intensity. Emotions are concerned about different things depending on the subject.”
An obsessive love disorder occurs when you feel possessive and protective towards someone else. It is the other person who has caught your attention.
When you are narcissistic, you are focused entirely on yourself. There may be a sense of inflated ego or a need for praise from others.
It is possible to be attracted to someone with obsessive love disorder if you have narcissistic tendencies, since they are consistently attentive.
How OLD is it diagnosed?
Psychologists or other mental health professionals diagnose this OLD disorder with a thorough evaluation. A survey will be conducted on the symptoms of the disease and also ask you about your relationships.
It will also be important for them to know how your family is, and if any mental illnesses are known within your family. Your doctor may also need to perform a medical diagnosis to rule out other causes.
Due to OLD intersection with other mental health disorders, Obsessive Love Disorder isn’t classified on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. Females suffer from OLD more than males for unknown reasons.
Treatment of OLD
A detailed treatment plan for this condition is dependent on the underlying cause. It usually also involves some form of medication as well as psychotherapy.
Medicines can be used to balance brain chemicals. As a result, symptoms of this disorder can be reduced. These may be the treatments your doctor recommends:
- Valium and Xanax, commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medications
- Antidepressants like Zoloft, Prozac and Paxil
- Mood stabilizers
- Antipsychotics
But, these medications may take several weeks to take effect. Several aspects of childhood can be linked to obsessive love disorder. so sometimes taking part in a therapy session with family can be helpful.
Read: Social Anxiety Disorder
Therapy may be individual or in groups depending on the severity and preferences of the patient. Occasionally depending on conditions, mental health professionals will recommend both kinds of therapy.
The following therapies can be used:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
- Play therapy (for children)
- Talk therapy
Recommended: Multiple Strategies To Control Overthinking
How to cope with obsessive love disorder
It can be difficult to deal with obsessive love disorder. It is possible to have an illness, such as obsessive love disorder, if you notice that you are experiencing the symptoms. Feel free to speak to your physician so that they can assist you in getting the help you need.
Feelings are important, don’t ignore them.
Don’t ignore these feelings hoping they will go away if you’ve noticed you are becoming obsessive about another person. You won’t usually be able to resolve them as long as you ignore them, and they will only get worse.
Consider a situation in which you or someone you love suffers from obsessive love disorder. If they are experiencing such triggers, group therapy may be of benefit, especially if they had attachment issues with family members or friends.
Read: How to Calm Anxiety Attacks
Instruction for people with obsessive love disorder (OLD)
While we’re seeing an increase in OLD, it’s still relatively rare. But the research says that less than 0.1 percent of people have the disorder.
If a loved one or you has a symptom of obsessive-compulsive disorder, please consult a doctor. It’s possible they’d recommend seeing a psychiatrist to find out whether you really have OLD. Or, there is a possibility that other mental illnesses also exist.
A positive outcome may be achieved with OLD when properly treated. One important thing, If you think you feel better, you shouldn’t stop therapy or treatment. If you suddenly stop your treatment, your symptoms can get worse, or they can come back.
Wonderful blog! I found it while surfing around
on Yahoo News. Do you have any suggestions on how to get listed in Yahoo News?
I’ve been trying for a while but I never seem to get there!
Appreciate it!
I am sure this post has touched all the internet visitors,
its really really nice paragraph on building up new weblog.
Wow, that’s what I was searching for, what a stuff!
existing here at this webpage, thanks admin of this web page.
I visited several blogs however your website is actually wonderful.
I just like the valuable info you supply in your articles.
I will bookmark your weblog and check once more right here regularly.
I’m slightly certain I will be told plenty of new stuff proper here!
Good luck for the following!
What I don’t realize is in reality how you are not actually much more
neatly favored than you might be right now. You are so
intelligent. You already know therefore significantly when it comes to
this subject, produced me personally consider it from numerous various angles.
It’s like women and men don’t seem to be interested until it’s one thing to do with Girl gaga!
Your personal stuffs nice. Always maintain it up!
Sweet blog! I found it while browsing on Yahoo
News. Do you have any suggestions on how to
get listed in Yahoo News? I’ve been trying for a while but I never seem to get
there! Thank you!
I’m not sure why but this site is loading extremely slow
for me. Is anyone else having this problem or is it a problem on my end?
I’ll check back later and see if the problem still exists.
As the admin of this site is working, no hesitation very
quickly it will be well-known, due to its feature contents.
I’m not sure where you’re getting your information, but great topic.
I needs to spend some time learning much more or figuring out
more. Thank you for wonderful info I was searching for
this info for my mission.
Just want to say your article is as amazing. The clarity in your post is
just spectacular and i can assume you’re an expert
on this subject. Well with your permission allow me to grab your feed to keep up to
date with forthcoming post. Thanks a million and please carry on the enjoyable work.
Your way of describing everything in this article is in fact good, all be capable of simply
understand it, Thanks a lot.
Thank you for sharing excellent informations. Your site is very cool. I am impressed by the details that you?ve on this website. It reveals how nicely you understand this subject. Bookmarked this web page, will come back for more articles. You, my pal, ROCK! I found just the info I already searched all over the place and just could not come across. What a great site.
Wow, this paragraph is good, my sister is analyzing these kinds
of things, so I am going to let know her.
Right here is the perfect site for everyone who wants to find out about
this topic. You realize a whole lot its almost tough to argue
with you (not that I actually will need to…HaHa).
You definitely put a brand new spin on a topic that has been written about for years.
Great stuff, just excellent!
I always spent my half an hour to read this weblog’s content everyday along with a cup of coffee.
Thanks designed for sharing such a pleasant thought, piece of writing is
fastidious, that’s why I have read it completely
Hi there, I wish for to subscribe for this blog to obtain hottest updates, therefore where can i do it please assist.
I always emailed this blog post page to all my associates,
for the reason that if like to read it after that my links will too.
Wow, that was odd. I just wrote a really long comment but after I clicked
submit my comment didn’t show up. Grrrr…
well, I’m not writing all that over again. Anyhow, I just wanted
to say that it is excellent blog!
Great write-up, I’m normal visitor of one’s site, maintain up the excellent operate, and It is going to be a regular visitor for a lengthy time.
I used to be recommended this blog via my cousin. I’m no longer positive
whether this submit is written through him as no one else
know such designated approximately my trouble.
You’re incredible! Thanks!
Magnificent items from you, man. I have take note your stuff prior to and you’re simply too great. I really like what you’ve acquired right here, certainly like what you are saying and the way in which in which you are saying it. You’re making it enjoyable and you continue to care for to keep it smart. I can’t wait to learn much more from you. That is actually a great website.
Everyone at this office is outstanding and truly
cares about your recovery. It’s a completely different experience than other treatment centers you’re treated like an adult
and with respect, unlike some other facilities.
Thanks for every other fantastic article. The place else could anyone get that kind of info in such a perfect means
of writing? I’ve got a presentation subsequent week, and I’m looking for such info.
Nice post. I learn something new and challenging on sites I
stumbleupon every day. It’s always helpful to read through content from
other authors and use a little something from other sites.
magnificent put up, very informative. I ponder why the opposite specialists of this sector
do not understand this. You should proceed your writing.
I’m confident, you have a huge readers’ base already!
Right here is the right webpage for everyone who wants to understand this
topic. You realize so much its almost tough to argue with
you (not that I really would want to…HaHa). You definitely
put a brand new spin on a subject that has been discussed for
decades. Great stuff, just excellent!
Hello. This post couldn’t be written any better! Reading this
post reminds me of my previous room mate. He always kept chatting
about this. I will forward this page to him. Fairly
certain he will have a good read. Thank
you for sharing.
Nice post . Thank you for posting something like this.
I am really impressed together with your writing abilities as smartly as with the format for your weblog. Is this a paid topic or did you customize it your self? Anyway keep up the nice quality writing, it’s uncommon to peer a great blog like this one today..
As the admin of this website is working, no uncertainty very rapidly it
will be renowned, due to its feature contents.
Link exchange is nothing else but it is only placing the other
person’s blog ink on your page at appropriate place aand other person will
also do same in support of you.
Pretty section of content. I just stumbled upon your web site and in accession capital to assert that I get actually enjoyed account your
blog posts. Anyway I will be subscribing to your feeds and even I achievement you access consistently rapidly.
Heya i’m for the first time here. I came across this board and I to
find It truly helpful & it helped me out a lot. I am hoping to present one thing again and help
others such as you aided me.
Greetings. I know this is somewhat off-topic, but I was wondering if you knew where I could get a captcha plugin for
my comment form? I’m using the same blog platform
like yours, and I’m having difficulty finding one? Thanks a lot.
Hi there would youu mind letting me know which web host you’re utilizing?
I’ve loaded yyour blog iin 3 different internet browsers
and I must sayy this blog loads a lot faster then most.
Can youu suggestt a good hosting provider at a fair price?
Thank you, I appreciate it!
Hey there, You’ve done an incredible job. I will definitely digg it and personally suggest
to my friends. I’m sure they’ll be benefited from this website.
whoah this blog is great i really like reading your articles.
Keep up the great work! You already know, a lot of people are searching around for this information, you
could aid them greatly.
Tһanks for sharing superb informatіons. Yⲟur web site is
very cool. I’m imprеssed by the details that you have on this ѕite.
It reveals how nicely you understand this
subject. Βookmarked this web page, will comｅ back for morе articles.
I am sure this piece of writing has touched all the internet
users, its really really pleasant post on building up new web site.
I feel really happy to have seen your webpage and look forward to so many more entertaining times reading here.
Thanks once more for all the details.
Useful post
I am really happy to say it’s an interesting post to read .
I learn new information from your article , you are doing
a great job. Keep it up!
This facility might not look the best but the quality
of care and treatment is exceptional. If you are looking for a
treatment center I would come here.
I simply wanted to write down a quick word to say thanks to you for those wonderful tips and hints you are showing
on this site.
And indeed, I’m just always astounded concerning the remarkable things served by you.
Some four facts on this page are undeniably the most effective I’ve had.
Nice information for a new blogger…it is really helpful!
Hello, after reading this amazing article i am also cheerful to share my knowledge here
with mates.
Ӏt’s a pity yoս don’t have a donate button! I’d wіthout a doubt
donate to this outѕtаnding bloց! I guess for now i’ll settle
for booҝmarking and adding your RSS feеd to my Goօgle ɑccount.
I look forward to brand new updates and will talk about
this ᴡebsite with my Facebook group. Talk soon!
Just wish to say your article is as astounding. The
clearness to your publish is just great and that i
can suppose you’re an expert on this subject.
Some really nice and useful info on this site, also I conceive the design has got wonderful features.
Hi there terrific website! Does running a blog similar to this
require a large amount of work? I have no understanding of coding
but I had been hoping to start my own blog in the near future.
Anyhow, if you have any recommendations or techniques for new
blog owners please share. I understand this is off subject nevertheless I just
had to ask. Thank you!
What’s up to every single one, it’s really a good for me to pay a quick visit this web site, it includes valuable Information.
Hurrah, that’s what I was looking for, what a stuff! existing here at
this blog, thanks admin of this web site.
Undeniably consider that which you stated. Your favorite
justification appeared to be on the internet the easiest factor to take into account
of. I say to you, I definitely get annoyed whilst other folks think
about concerns that they plainly don’t recognise about.
You managed to hit the nail upon the highest and outlined out the whole thing with no need side-effects , people can take a signal.
Will probably be back to get more. Thanks
I got what you intend, regards for posting. Woh I am pleased to find this website through google.
Looking forward to reading more. Great blog. Really thank you! Really Cool.
Hello this is kind of off topic but I was wondering
I’m starting a blog soon but have no coding skills so I wanted to get
advice from someone with experience. Any help would be
greatly appreciated!
Your writing skills impressed me a lot. <3
Wow that was odd. I just wrote an very long comment but after I clicked submit my comment didn’t appear.
Grrrr… well I’m not writing all that over again. Anyhow, just wanted to say excellent blog!
I for all time emailed this weblog post page to
all my friends, as if like to read it after that my
friends will too.
Can you tell us more about this? I’d care to find out more details.
Howdy! This post could not be written any better! Reading through this
post reminds me of my old room mate! He always kept chatting
about this. I will forward this write-up to
him. Pretty sure he will have a good read. Many thanks for sharing!
For correct information you have to read page and details on it and I found
this site as a most excellent site for right information.
Hi! This is my 1st comment here so I just wanted to give a
quick shout out and say I genuinely enjoy reading your blog posts. Thanks a ton!
It’s awesome for me to have a web site, which is helpful in support of my experience.
thanks admin