What is Avoidant Personality Disorder?
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) includes ten personality disorders and groups them into three clusters (A, B, and C) that are based on similar or shared characteristics. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) define personality disorders as a “way of thinking, feeling and behaving that deviates from the expectations of the culture, causes distress or problems functioning, and lasts over time.” Each personality disorder has distinct characteristics. Avoidant personality disorder is categorized in the Cluster C personality disorders, which are characterized by anxious, fearful thinking and/ or behavior. Individuals with avoidant personality disorder go to extreme lengths to avoid social situations due to fear of being judged by others and rejection.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Every person is unique and will exhibit the signs and symptoms of avoidant personality disorder differently. There are, however, several common signs and symptoms associated with avoidant personality disorder, which can include any combination of the following, as provided by Psychology Today:
Exaggeration of potential difficulties
Avoidance of activities that involve contact with others
Reluctance to become involved with people
Easily hurt by disapproval or criticism
Does not have close friends
Showing excessive restraint in intimate relationships
Unwilling to take risks and/ or try new things due to fear of embarrassment
Feeling socially inept, inferior, or unappealing to others
The onset of avoidant behaviors usually occurs in infancy or early childhood and manifests as isolation, shyness, and avoidance of new people and/ or new places. It is typical for children to be shy, and while most grow out of this behavior in time, those who develop avoidant personality disorder become increasingly timid as time passes. The signs and symptoms of avoidant personality disorder can vary from mild to severe
TREATMENT
There are a variety of treatment options available for individuals with avoidant personality disorder. Most treatment plans include a combination of psychotherapy (e.g. cognitive behavioral therapy) and medication (e.g. antidepressants). While either treatment component alone can be helpful, studies have found the combination of medication and psychotherapy to be more effective. Through treatment, an individual with avoidant personality disorder can develop useful social skills and learn an array of emotional coping mechanisms to reinforce and improve one’s ability to relate to others and effectively navigate and manage the symptoms associated with avoidant personality disorder.
FOR INFORMATION AND SUPPORT
Navigating the challenges that arise from living with mental illness, struggling with substance abuse, and/ or addiction can not only be all consuming but are often impossible to effectively handle without proper support. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one in regards to mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. Bear in mind that you do not have to be on this journey alone. There is an entire network of professionals that are readily available to help and support you and your loved one throughout every step of the recovery process.
If left untreated, substance abuse, addiction, and/ or mental illness can result in long lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy and fulfilling lives. Please do not hesitate to reach out for guidance. We are always available to answer any questions, and are certainly happy to discuss how we might best be able to help in the recovery process.