Treatment Choices for Dependent Personality Disorder
In the realm of mental health, Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD) is a condition that warrants attention. This article aims to shed light on DPD, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
DPD is a Cluster C personality disorder, characterised by anxious and fearful thoughts. It is marked by a pervasive reliance on other people to make decisions or complete daily responsibilities. People with DPD may avoid expressing opinions for fear of disapproval.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5) outlines several symptoms that must be present for a clinical diagnosis of DPD. These include fear of abandonment, extreme dependence on others, submissive behaviour, and clingy tendencies. If these symptoms are long-lasting and lead to five or more of the aforementioned signs, a diagnosis of DPD may be considered.
There are many possible causes of DPD, including childhood trauma, abusive relationships, cultural factors, and biological predisposition. Understanding these roots can be a crucial step in the treatment process.
Treatment for DPD primarily involves psychotherapy, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapy. The goal is to increase self-reliance and interpersonal competence. Schema therapy, a psychotherapy approach designed to treat personality disorders, is also effective, as it aims to help people understand their unhelpful patterns and coping strategies and replace them with helpful ones. Therapists practicing schema therapy also re-parent clients by meeting their unmet childhood needs within a healthy boundary.
It's important to note that there's no cure for DPD, but several treatment options can help manage symptoms and encourage independence. Medications can treat symptoms associated with DPD, such as anxiety and depression, though there are no Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved medications specifically for DPD. Some experts believe certain antidepressants may help.
Remember, your treatment journey will be unique, and there are various resources available to help find a therapist. Psych Central's article "Find a Therapist: Mental Health Resources for Everyone", American Psychiatric Association's Find a Psychiatrist tool, American Psychological Association's Find a Psychologist tool, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Helplines and Support Tools, Therapy in Color, Therapy for Black Girls, The National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association, and Therapy for Latinx are just a few examples.
It's crucial to look for a therapist you trust to help process past experiences and build the necessary skills to complete tasks independently. The sooner you receive treatment for DPD, the less likely you are to develop other mental health conditions.
Fear of abandonment is at the heart of DPD. This fear can lead to anxiety in social situations, seen in social anxiety disorder and DPD, and can cause anger or distress when one is not cared for by another person. Untreated DPD can also be associated with complications like anxiety disorders, depression, substance use disorder, and phobias.
In conclusion, Dependent Personality Disorder is a complex condition, but understanding it is the first step towards seeking help. With the right treatment and support, it's possible to manage symptoms and work towards a more independent, fulfilling life.
