Telling your husband you got diagnosed with ocd

Work with your therapist on a plan. You could do a session with your therapist where your husband is present to help explain things thoroughly and answer any questions. OCD is a condition that often affects those we love. Avoiding that conversation (due to fear) is probably completely unnecessary—the signs and effects have likely already been noticed, maybe not given a name. I would recommend having the conversation, and include ways that your husband can support you with your condition. For instance, when I was first diagnosed with OCD and started therapy, I informed my partner I would be doing less of x,y, and z around the house periodically as part of my exposures (contamination ERP meant intermittent cleaning was on the horizon). My partner cared and worried. I wish I had been more clear on *how* they could help me (“please, don’t provide me reassurance. This is what that would look like.” and “please, not every conversation we have has to be about OCD”, among other things). My partner was very concerned and a little confused when I told them there were very little “active “ things for them to do, as ERP was something I needed to do as an individual. This was hard for my partner to watch as I struggled initially in therapy, and they weren’t sure how to tell if I needed help or what to watch for if things got out of hand. I was so focused on improving my condition I didn’t realize how much of a burden this worry was to live with each day. If there is any way to help your partner see that yes, you have OCD, and yes, it has been affecting your lives…but you’re taking great steps to recovery that likely don’t require much work on their part…bravo! As long as your partner does not aggravate your condition, they are doing a pretty great job imo. Good luck, it is a tough conversation to have!

I don’t have any great advice, but just sharing a positive perspective- Telling some of my friends and family after I was diagnosed was actually a little cathartic for me. My husband was actually relieved that we finally had an explanation for my fears and anxiety! And others were genuinely interested to learn what ocd actually is (vs the stereotypical clean obsessed person they show on tv) and all were eager to know how they could support me. Wishing you luck as you decide to share your news on your own time, but just know the conversation could go much better than you’re imagining!