SCHIZOTYPAL PERSONALITY DISORDER

SCHIZOTYPAL PERSONALITY DISORDER

A schizotypal personality disorder is a thought disorder that affects one’s ability to conform to social norms. People with this disorder may be described as odd and peculiar. Additionally, this may lead to severe anxiety, making it harder for people to attend gatherings, socialize, and form healthy relationships.

The exact cause of schizotypal personality disorder is unclear, but it is believed that it is influenced by genetics and some environmental factors.

SYMPTOMS

The signs and symptoms indicating that a person suffers from this personality disorder may include:

  • Being alone and lack of close friends
  • Lack of emotions
  • Inappropriate emotional responses
  • Continuous and excessive social anxiety
  • Inaccurate interpretation of events
  • Unusual, odd, and peculiar manner of thinking, mannerisms, and beliefs
  • Constant thoughts of distrust and paranoia
  • Uncommon perceptions such as belief in superstitions and supernatural powers
  • Odd ways of speaking and dressing up

These symptoms of schizotypal personality disorder are often seen in teens and children. Furthermore, if you or someone you know display these symptoms, consider encouraging them to seek professional help.

DIAGNOSIS

Most patients who suffer from this personality disorder would refuse to seek help. Hence, they need gentle encouragement from their peers and loved ones. 

During the diagnosis, the doctor will first conduct a physical exam. For further evaluation, the doctor will refer you to a mental health expert.

The diagnosis for a schizotypal personality disorder is based on:

  • A detailed interview about your symptoms
  • Your medical history

TREATMENT

Personality disorder treatment includes:

  • Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy helps people with a schizotypal personality disorder to trust others. It includes:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy- Recognizing and challenging negative thought patterns, learning particular social skills, and adjusting problem behaviors.

Supportive therapy- Presenting encouragement and stimulating adaptive skills.

Family therapy- Requiring family members to improve communication and trust with the patient for better relationships at home.

  • Medications 

There are no medications for the treatment of schizotypal personality disorder. However, doctors recommend antidepressants to reduce the symptoms, such as anxiety and depression. In some cases, some medications improve flexibility in thinking.

The doctor may also prescribe the following medications:

  • Antipsychotics: aripiprazole, olanzapine, quetiapine, or risperidone
  • Stimulants like methylphenidate
  • The ADHD drug guanfacine
  • Benzodiazepines such as clonazepam 
  • Gabapentin to treat seizures

In some cases, severe stress and symptoms may need hospitalization.

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