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Dependent personality disorder can have an impact on every aspect of life, much like other personality disorders. While we all rely on each other, a person with DPD displays extreme forms of dependence.
According to research published in 2020, people with personality disorder had greater rates of disability, healthcare utilization and co-occurring medical illnesses. If treated and managed, a dependent personality disorder can enable an individual to live a happy and fulfilling life.
Dependent personality disorder: What is it?
Extremely strong and overpowering needs to be taken care of, frequently coupled with concerns of being left alone, rejected, or disappointing others, are defining features of dependent personality disorder.
Those with this syndrome may be labeled as needy or clingy. Others, though, may simply not get the ongoing self-doubt they experience or the fact that they're only looking for solace or guidance. Early adulthood is typically when this personality disorder first manifests its symptoms.
Symptoms of dependent personality disorder
Depending on the individual, dependent personality disorder may manifest differently. The early stages of adulthood, frequently before the age of 30, are when signs first appear. However, not everyone with an anxious attachment style has dependent personality disorder.
Individuals with DPD become too emotionally reliant on other people and exert a lot of effort to win their favor. Patients frequently behave in needy, passive, and clingy ways and have separation anxiety.
These are some of the more common traits of this personality disorder:
- Inability to make judgments without the guidance and confidence of others, even simple decisions like what to dress
- Being helpless and passive to avoid having to deal with adult responsibilities, relying on a partner or friend to make decisions on where to live and work
- When relationships break, people with DPD often jump directly into another one out of intense concern of being abandoned and a sense of sorrow or powerlessness.
- Excessive sensitivity to criticism
- Optimism and low self-esteem, especially the idea that they can't take care of themselves
Some instances of dependent personality disorder in real-world situations usually involve:
1) Self-criticism
You might, for instance, call yourself dumb for making a mistake you'd be willing to overlook in someone else.
2) Avoiding accountability at work
It may be a sign that dependent personality disorder is affecting your self-esteem if you avoid taking on challenging tasks or even just your fundamental responsibilities out of fear of disappointing others.
3) Avoiding social situations
You may occasionally turn down invites to spend time with people who aren't part of your inner council.
4) Total lack of independence
When you're out with the people you love, you might be the life of the party, but when you're alone, you become lifeless.
5) Concealing insecurity
You can sense a discrepancy between the person you present to the world and how you feel on the inside, even though other people perceive you as being outwardly confident. You might even believe that those who care and like you don't really feel that way.
What causes dependent personality disorder?
Although the precise origin of DPD is unknown, a confluence of biological, developmental, temperamental, and psychological variables is most certainly involved.
According to experts, children who're predisposed to the disease may develop dependent personality traits as a result of an authoritarian or overly protective parenting style.
Coping with dependent personality disorder
It can be initially difficult to come to terms with your diagnosis. With the right support and therapy, you can find effective ways to cope with the disorder. Here are some self-help ways to do so:
1) Develop your independence
Assess your connections with your loved ones, and note any instances of dependence. Take baby steps towards becoming independent without their help. Consider taking on one of the things that someone else normally does for you each week or each month.
2) Become more self-assured
Start paying attention to your intuition, thoughts, and feelings. When you ask for others' advice when making a decision, consider it, and pay attention to your feelings. No matter what happens, believe in your instincts and ability to handle them.
3) Analyze your need for affirmation
Keep in mind that receiving approval is not the same as needing it to function. Analyze your needs and wants preferably with a mental health professional.
4) Exercise
Starting an exercise routine and challenging yourself to do a little more each day can be beneficial. Knowing that you can push yourself beyond your mental and physical limitations might make you feel more powerful and capable.
By diligently using therapy and medication, a dependent personality disorder can be managed. While managing the conditions, you can live independently and with fulfillment.
You may feel anxious about making choices or being by yourself if you have a dependent personality condition. It can be challenging and uncomfortable to live with that. However, therapy can help you grow in self-assurance and self-belief, which can help you become more independent and self-sufficient.
You can still cherish intimacy without allowing dependent personality disorder to rule your life. A crucial first step is realizing how it impacts you.
Janvi Kapur is a counselor with a Master's degree in applied psychology with a specialization in clinical psychology.
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