DH's Hit and Run OCD

[HitandrunOCD]

I'm a regular but name changed.
I need some advice. My DH has in the last 6 weeks developed OCD. It revolves around him thinking he's knocked a cyclist off their bike and he is repeatedly re checking his route, to check. Despite not having seen a cyclist.

It came out yesterday when he was 45 minutes going to get diesel, (8.45 pm when he went out). Then came back head in hands, stressed, pacing. Went back out for nearly an hour. In which time he said he'd done 30 miles checking and rechecking his route (petrol station is 2-3 miles away).

It is happening some nights after work too. But never on his way into work.

I've googled and so has he. And it's a recognised type of OCD.

Any advice on how I can help and support him would be most welcome.

I've asked him to book and appointment with his G.P.

This is obviously impacting on family life too as he is often not home before 7.30 and I want the children to go to bed at a decent time. So we are missing out on family time.

Definitely would suggest seeing the GP as they will be able to refer to a specialist counsellor. I don't have any practical advice in the meantime I'm afraid.

Not much advice to offer but didn't want to ignore (am former sufferer) - First things first - he WILL get better in time. Secondly, he needs to see his GP asap - it sounds as though (if this is really sudden onset) as though he is suffering an extreme stress reaction - akin to a breakdown - where his brain is going into an exhausted loop pattern. A lot hangs on whether he has ever had (possibly hidden) episodes. Pop the children into bed at their usual time and try not to let it impact too much as it will add to the stress - equally you can't indulge him - CBT is the best long term solution but your GP may have other suggestions. Wishing you both all the best.

Thank you.
He is very stressed at work. Doing two people's jobs, because they cannot find someone else.

I will get him to the G.P.

Likewise my first reaction is to not indulge him. But also try not to get angry about it.

He needs CBT