Do I Have Dependent Personality Disorder?

Do you have difficulty making everyday decisions without an excessive amount of advice and reassurance from others?

Do you need others to assume responsibility for most major areas of your life?

Do you have difficulty expressing disagreement with others because of fear of loss of support or approval?

Do you have difficulty initiating projects or doing things on your own (because of a lack of self-confidence in judgment or abilities rather than a lack of motivation or energy)?

Do you go to excessive lengths to obtain nurturance and support from others, to the point of volunteering to do things that are unpleasant?

Do you feel uncomfortable or helpless when alone because of exaggerated fears of being unable to care for yourself?

Do you urgently seek another relationship as a source of care and support when a close relationship ends?

Are you unrealistically preoccupied with fears of being left to take care of yourself?

While it is unlikely that you have dependent personality disorder, you may be displaying some signs related to it. Dependent personality disorder (DPD) is a mental disorder in which people are anxious to be alone or not around others. They rely on others for reassurance and comfort. People who suffer from this disorder are likely to deal with additional complications such as depression, phobias and panic disorders. It is important to detect early signs of the disorder because early treatment can prevent the problems from getting worse. You can always ask your doctor for more information about the disorder.

While it is unlikely that you have dependent personality disorder (DPD), you are displaying some signs related to it. It may be useful to plan a visit to your doctor. Your doctor will start with physical exams (including blood tests) to rule out physical causes for your symptoms. If required, your doctor will refer you to a mental health specialist. A diagnosis for DPD is usually made by a psychologist or psychiatrist. They will check your symptoms, ask you about your history and test your mental state. Detecting and treating symptoms of DPD can prevent the symptoms from worsening.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have dependent personality disorder. It may be essential to seek medical attention. Your doctor may ask you about your symptoms, your medical history and your mental state. A mental health professional may conclude that treatment is needed. Treatment for DPD is usually focused on alleviating symptoms. A common method is psychotherapy, that will help you better to understand your condition. Additionally, it will teach you how to build healthy relationships with order people and how to improve your self-esteem. Psychotherapy is usually short-term. Medication is sometimes prescribed by a doctor to help relieve anxiety and depression.