Do I Have Paranoid Personality Disorder?

Do you suspect, without sufficient basis, that others are exploiting, harming or deceiving you?

Are you preoccupied with unjustified doubts about the loyalty or trustworthiness of friends or associates?

Are you reluctant to confide in others because of unwarranted fear that the information will be used maliciously against you?

Do you read hidden demeaning or threatening meanings into benign remarks or events?

Do you persistently bear grudges (i.e., unforgiving of insults, injuries or slights)?

Do you perceive attacks on your character or reputation that are not apparent to others and are you quick to react angrily or to counterattack?

Do you have recurrent suspicions, without justification, regarding fidelity of spouse or sexual partner?

Are the symptoms caused by schizophrenia, a bipolar disorder or depressive disorder with psychotic features or another psychotic disorder and are not attributable to the physiological effects of another medical condition?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you have paranoid personality disorder.

While it is unlikely that you have paranoid personality disorder, you are displaying some signs related to it. People who suffer from this disorder are very suspicious of others and they mistrust their motives. If you are worried about your symptoms or just want to know more about the disorder, you should contact your doctor. To make a diagnosis, the doctor will ask you about your symptoms and history. A physical evaluation will be conducted to rule out other medical problems. If needed, the doctor will refer you to a mental health professional for further testing.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have paranoid personality disorder. Seeking medical support is highly recommended. Treatment for the disorder is a challenge, because people who suffer from paranoid personality disorder mistrust others. If you are willing to do an effort and accept treatment, the results can be very rewarding. Treatment usually consists of psychotherapy and sometimes medication or a combination of both. Treatment must be continues, because the disorder can’t be cured. However, it’s possible for someone who receives ongoing treatment to maintain a job and normal relationships.