September 20, 2019
For most people, being social and engaging with others is a daily activity that one looks forward to. However, for some, such interactions are undesirable and usually sidestepped whenever possible. Such a person may be suffering from schizoid personality disorder, in which they may disengage from relationships with others. Instead, the person will often prefer solitude and being alone.
Schizoid personality disorder is not a very common condition and people struggling with this disorder tend to stay away from social activities and interacting with others. In addition, they may also have a very limited range of emotional expression. A person dealing with this disorder usually appears to be distant and dismissive of others and it is possible that they may be lacking the desire or skills to nurture close personal relationships.
Symptoms of schizoid personality disorder
People with this disorder face extreme difficulty in expressing anger even when they are directly provoked. Other symptoms of such a disorder include:
Treatment for schizoid personality disorder
Due to the nature of this disorder, oftentimes, it may take specific urging from family members to seek treatment. However, if a patient has been diagnosed and is willing to receive help, there will be different options for assistance. Frequent psychotherapy sessions aimed at treating the disorder may be necessary for best results. To a layman, it may be difficult to distinguish a schizoid personality disorder from Asperger syndrome, but a certified professional would be able to make out the difference between the two.
The most effective treatment modality for this disorder is talk therapy, a form of psychotherapy. A therapist trained in studying the disorder will be able to identify the boundaries the patient has created for themselves. They would understand how challenging it may be for the schizoid personality disorder patient to open up to others. Such a professional will know how to move forward without the patient feeling excessively pressurized.
Eventually, group therapy may be a goal for the patient, allowing them the opportunity to communicate with others who are seeking similar treatment. With time, this form of therapy can help reduce agitation about social situations. A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) may be prescribed if the patient also suffers from depression or anxiety. Antipsychotics may also be helpful when it comes to symptoms such as lack of sociability or empathy.
There is also the option of self-help if the patient feels up to it. This may come in for therapy later once they feel more comfortable in social settings. Examples of self-help include joining a club or seeking employment where greater interaction is required. This may follow short-term treatment, as it may be difficult for the person to make long-term commitments. Though it is not common for the client to develop an empathetic connection with a therapist, treatment will nonetheless be focused on appropriate solutions. Hopefully, those with this disorder can learn to find means of making their life more manageable by gaining greater control over their symptoms.
Seeking timely treatment
Diagnosis of this disorder takes time. Not many are detected with signs of this disorder till they reach adulthood. For those whose symptoms are manageable, prolonged psychotherapy under a trained mental health professional is recommended. Medications, coupled with various therapies, are prescribed for people complaining of exhaustion or debilitating symptoms.
If you or a loved one is battling mental health disorders and is looking for a licensed mental health treatment center, get in touch with Invictus Health Group. Call our 24/7 helpline 866-548-0190 and speak to a member of our team. You can also chat online to a representative for more information on mental health services.
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