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Schizoid Personality Disorder

Schizoid personality disorder causes you to seem distant and emotionless, rarely engaging in social situations or pursuing relationships with other people. This disorder can make itself apparent early in life, when you fail to form meaningful relationships with people. 

Schizoid personality disorder can lead to a life of isolation and loneliness. Being alone is a normal, desirable part of life for people with schizoid personality disorder. Schizoid personality disorder can have a strong impact on your success in life, at work, in school, and in relationships. Treatments, including medication and therapy, can help you overcome this disorder and become more adept in social situations. 

Symptoms

If you have schizoid personality disorder, you may exhibit some standard symptoms. Talk to your doctor about testing and treatment for this disorder if you or a loved one experience any of these symptoms:

  • Difficulty expressing emotions or acting appropriately in emotional situations
  • You prefer being alone or isolated from others
  • You have few relationships, including friends or romantic partners
  • You are not affected by or does not notice the emotional distress of others
  • Have a detached, almost robotic attitude
  • Lacking motivation or goals
  • Avoiding all activities that involve other people
  • Appearing emotionless, humorless or indifferent to others
  • You do not desire or enjoy close personal relationships
  • You have no interest in finding a romantic partner 
  • You are indifferent to praise or criticism 

Causes

Schizoid personality disorder and other disorders on the schizophrenia spectrum have no definite cause. Some risk factors may increase your chances of developing schizoid personality disorder, including:

  • Complications at birth
  • Head or brain injuries
  • A family history of schizophrenia disorders or other mental health conditions
  • Misuse of alcohol or drugs
  • Exposure to viruses, illnesses, or malnutrition before birth
  • Trauma, especially emotional and physical abuse, violence, or abuse in the home during childhood, and trauma caused by war
  • Having a parental figure who is cold, neglectful, and remote

Treatment

Many types of treatment are available to cope with schizoid personality disorder, and these treatments can be very effective. Talk to your doctor about treating a treatment plan that helps you control your symptoms and learn to reach out to others. 

Medication: While there is no medication that will cure this condition completely, anti-anxiety medications and antidepressants can help control the symptoms of your disorder. Find a doctor at Sheppard Pratt to talk to about medication.

Therapy: Individual therapy may be challenging for patients with schizoid personality disorder. Group therapy, occupational therapy, and self-help programs can teach you new coping skills and help you learn about how to develop relationships. Learn more about your therapy options. 

Education: Learning more about your triggers and behaviors that you should watch out for as you learn more about living with your disorder is essential to your success. Learn more about mental health. 

Support: It can be beneficial for you to know that you’re not alone in feeling this way. Find a support group at Sheppard Pratt.