Supporting my Partner with OCD

[HildaGroundHog]

Hi! I have a long-term GAD & panic disorder diagnosis. My fiancé of 6 years recently received an OCD diagnosis. I’m very happy he finally got an official diagnosis.

However, due to life circumstances, we’re currently down to 1 car. His car sh*t the bed, & cars are wicked hard to get without spending a ton right now. Luckily, our work offices are like 5 minutes down the road from each other, so carpooling to work has been no big deal.

As of late, though, his OCD loops have been hitting hard in the morning (his main triggers are appearance & clothing based from what I understand). He’s also had this job for about 9 months, so he’s still new. He’s been caught in the cycle almost every week day morning.

It’s now getting to the point where I’m waiting on him more & more regularly (if not every work day) for him to calm himself enough to get out the door. I’m the “late” one of our relationship usually, & I’m getting more & more frustrated waiting for him. It’s now gotten semi-regular that I end up getting to work anywhere 10-20 minutes late.

Luckily, my workplace is chill, & I always communicate with my boss & he doesn’t seem to mind.

My fiancé is resuming therapy again later this week (thank GOD). I feel for him, to an extent. Having GAD & Panic Disorder I understand the anxiety part, but not so much the compulsion. But I do find myself getting frustrated at him for falling into this pattern. I know therapy will help, but it’s gonna take time. I’m still finding my patience wearing thin & would love any advice or insight. Thanks for reading all of this & for your help!