An Overview Of Dependent Personality Disorder
This can lead to challenges in various areas of life, including at work and in personal relationships.
Below, we’ll explore dependent personality disorder, the criteria for diagnosis, and available treatments for this disorder.
Symptoms of dependent personality disorder
Individuals living with dependent personality disorder (DPD) typically believe they can’t take care of themselves, so they typically rely on someone to care of them and make decisions for them, such as what clothes to wear. Individuals with DPD this disorder are generally emotionally dependent on others and do everything they can to try to please those they rely on. They also tend to be passive and experience separation anxiety. They may even tolerate negative behavior, abuse,* or mistreatment from others.
*If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please know that help is available via the National Domestic Violence Hotline, which you can contact anytime at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). You can also text the word “START” to 88788 or use the lifeline’s online chat feature online.
How is dependent personality disorder diagnosed?
If you think you have dependent personality disorder, it may help to speak with a healthcare provider first. A healthcare provider may consider your symptoms and conduct a physical exam to rule out any potential physical causes. If they don’t find a physical cause of your symptoms, they may refer you to a licensed mental health professional.
A licensed therapist may look at your symptoms and determine whether they relate to dependent personality disorder, borderline personality disorder (which often has several common characteristics), or something else entirely.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, a mental health professional may diagnose dependent personality disorder if you meet five or more of the following criteria:
“All-consuming, unrealistic fear of being abandoned.
Anxious or helpless feelings when alone.
Inability to manage life responsibilities without seeking help from others.
Problems stating an opinion out of fear of loss of support or approval.
Strong drive to get support from others, even choosing to do unenjoyable things to get it.
Trouble making everyday decisions without input or reassurance from others.
Trouble starting or completing projects because of a lack of self-confidence or ability to make decisions.
Urge to seek a new relationship to provide support and approval when a close relationship ends.”
Challenges for those with dependent personality disorder
For those living with dependent personality disorder, the inability to make decisions for themselves can lead to significant challenges. The constant worry about what others think about what they do, say, wear, or even eat can take a significant toll on their mind and lead them to relationships where they can be entirely dependent on someone else. These relationships could be platonic friendships or romantic relationships. Because one individual may be entirely dependent on the other, these are often not considered healthy relationships.
For a person with DPD, it can be a challenge to do anything throughout the day without input from someone else. Individuals that they rely on may also experience stress if they feel like they have to constantly watch out for this other person. Whereas most friendships and romantic relationships tend to feature a bit of give and take, with both people offering advice, feedback, and suggestions, in this type of relationship, the person with DPD may generally be incapable of doing these things without assurance from someone else.
Treatment for dependent personality disorder
When it comes to treatment, a psychiatrist or therapist may be able to help you experience significant relief from your symptoms. It may help to be open and honest with them about what you are experiencing and how you are feeling at every stage of the process. A therapist may use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you become more independent, work toward making decisions for yourself, and become more of an active participant in your own life. This may help you feel less dependent and create healthier relationships, rather than relationships in which you are overly dependent on others.
Medication can be another form of treatment for certain individuals who are living with DPD. However, medication generally does not cure DPD. Instead, a psychiatrist may prescribe medication for depression and anxiety, which can be symptoms of DPD. It’s recommended that you never start or stop medication unless a medical professional has instructed you to.
Online therapy may alleviate symptoms of dependent personality disorder
If you think you might be living with dependent personality disorder, you don’t have to face it alone. It may help to speak with a licensed mental health professional about your symptoms. If you feel hesitant to visit a therapist’s office, you may benefit from , which research suggests can be effective for a variety of mental health concerns, including personality disorders.
With online therapy at BetterHelp you can communicate with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home via phone, videoconference, or live chat. You can also contact your therapist at any time via in-app messaging, and they’ll respond as soon as they can. This may prove to be helpful if you have questions or concerns in between therapy sessions.
Takeaway
If you’re experiencing symptoms of DPD, you may benefit from speaking with a licensed counselor, whether in person or online. With BetterHelp, you can be matched with a licensed therapist who has experience helping people who are living with DPD. Take the first step toward becoming more independent and reach out to BetterHelp today./div>
What is the best therapy for dependent personality disorder?
One of the most widely utilized forms of psychotherapy for dependent personality disorder is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). This modality focuses on helping individuals reframe negative thought processes that may be underlying their symptoms. For example, if a person with dependent personality disorder strongly feels that they’re unable to function well when they’re away from their partner, a therapist may help them find evidence that such beliefs aren’t rational.
Psychodynamic therapy is another frequently utilized method of care. Through this modality, individuals can better understand how prior interpersonal relationships influence their current symptoms—and how they can develop more self-reliance moving forward. For example, a therapist may help an individual discover that overprotective parenting encouraged dependency, then work with them to develop tools for creating more independence.
Can dependent personality disorder be treated?
It is possible to treat dependent personality disorder. Therapy can help someone with dependent personality disorder identify the sources of their excessive need for the comfort and aid of the people upon which they rely. A therapist can also provide emotional support and address symptoms of any comorbid disorders. Mental health care for personality disorders may also include medication, which can alleviate the symptoms of anxiety or depression that may accompany the condition.
How do you deal with dependent personality disorder?
Dependent personality disorder is typically treated with psychotherapy, though medications are sometimes prescribed as well. If you’re living with dependent personality disorder, a healthcare professional can provide you with screenings and determine whether further testing, diagnosis, and treatment are necessary.
How do you treat dependent personality traits?
If an individual is living with dependent personality disorder, there are several modalities that may improve symptoms. Dependent personality disorder treatment often centers around psychotherapy, though medication is also used in some cases. Often, individuals with dependent personality disorder strongly doubt that they can function without the people on whom they rely. Identifying and replacing such maladaptive beliefs can help them alleviate anxiety and take steps toward independence.
What causes try to use triggers for trauma and abuse-dependent personality disorder?
Risk factors for dependent personality disorder include traumatic experiences in childhood and a family history of personality disorders or other mental health conditions. Many individuals with dependent personality disorder experienced some form of abuse at an early age. Environmental influences—such as certain parenting styles or cultural attitudes—are also considered risk factors. For more information on the causes and risk factors of dependent personality disorder, visit the page “Personality Disorders” at Sheppard Pratt.
What is the first-line treatment for dependent personality disorder?
The first-line treatment for dependent personality disorder is usually psychotherapy. The therapeutic methods used most often for the condition are psychodynamic therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. Psychotherapy can help individuals identify the sources of their symptoms, cope with the emotional challenges of the disorder, and address comorbid mental health concerns.
Medication may also be utilized to help manage symptoms. Dependent personality disorder is a cluster C personality disorder. Conditions in this cluster of personality disorders are typically characterized by anxiety. So, medications that address such symptoms—such as certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs—are sometimes prescribed.
What is an example of a person with dependent personality disorder?
People with dependent personality disorder often feel unable to function well without the support of certain loved ones. This belief often manifests as clinging behavior and concerns about abandonment. An individual with this condition might rely on their loved ones for emotional support, help with daily tasks, and decision-making. They may also engage in people-pleasing behaviors to avoid disagreements with the subject of their dependency. In fact, someone with dependent personality disorder may lie about their competency so that the person they rely on will continue to provide care.
Is personality disorder permanent?
Though the symptoms of dependent personality disorder may persist throughout an individual’s life, they can be treated so that their effects are limited. Often, though, the duration of the condition depends on whether an individual receives treatment, the severity of their symptoms, and other personal circumstances.
Is dependent personality disorder a disability?
According to the Social Security Administration, personality disorders may qualify for disability benefits if the individual can prove that they have an “excessive need to be taken care of” and that this need creates significant limitations.
Does dependent personality disorder get worse with age?
Dependent personality disorder can worsen over time in some cases. Certain risk factors for dependent personality disorder—such as a codependent relationship—may exacerbate symptoms as an individual ages. However, the condition can also be managed so that its symptoms become less severe over time. For more information on treating dependent personality disorder, visit the page “Personality Disorders” at Sheppard Pratt.
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