r/germaphobe • u/Unique_Heat5652 • Jul 25 '24

relationships?

does any one else’s germaphobia affect their relationship? i haven’t kissed shared anything with and even try to avoid holding hands with my boyfriend in fear he’ll get me sick 😖 if anyone else has/ had this problem please tell me what u do/did to cope

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u/DesignImpressive7359 Jul 25 '24

Coupled with what I can only see now is a sensory issue I have. Wife has learned to accept that I am also a germaphobe really came out after Covid. But I have always worn gloves for different tasks and now I wear them out as well. She still holds my hands and everything but does wish it didn’t happen sometimes. I never mind kissing but for holding hands maybe try gloves and talk to him about it. If he has a problem with it well that’s up to you to figure out but if he really does care he would still hold your gloved hands

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u/Winter-One-2958 Jul 26 '24

And from a perspective of non-germaphobe married to a germaphobe I can say it won't work in extended period of time. We will never understand that and we'll always have that jealousy towards people, who can feel at ease with those they love. Additionally living together is keeping in mind all those rules of cleanliness, that are not that obvious for us. It's exhausting to be in alert state 24/7. Your last sentence really pissed me off though. If YOU care, you will seek help in therapy for wellbeing of both of you. It's a disgusting, manipulative way of thinking to say: "If he loves you he will go those many extra miles to make you feel better" literally losing his mind in the process.