An Overview: What Is Dependent Personality Disorder?
Dependent personality disorder is one of 10 personality disorders recognized by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), estimated to affect 1% of the US population, per the Merck Manual. Individuals with dependent personality disorder (DPD) are often emotionally dependent on others and experience difficulty making decisions for themselves. These symptoms can lead to challenges in various areas of life, including at work and in personal relationships.
Below, explore dependent personality disorder, the criteria for diagnosis, and available treatments.
What is dependent personality disorder and symptoms of dependent personality disorder
Dependent Personality Disorder is a condition where someone feels an overwhelming need to rely on others for decision-making and emotional support, often leading them to be excessively submissive and clingy in their relationships. It can make everyday tasks and decisions daunting without constant reassurance from others. Individuals living with dependent personality disorder (DPD) typically believe they can’t take care of themselves, so they may rely on someone to care for them and make decisions for them, such as what clothes to wear. Individuals with DPD are generally emotionally dependent on others and may make great efforts to please those they depend on. They also tend to be passive, experience separation anxiety, and tolerate negative behavior, abuse,* or mistreatment from others.
*If you or a loved one is experiencing abuse, contact the Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). Support is available 24/7.
How is dependent personality disorder diagnosed?
If you think you have a dependent personality disorder, speak with a healthcare provider first. A healthcare provider may consider your symptoms and conduct a physical exam to rule out any potential physical causes. If they don’t find a physical cause of your symptoms, they may refer you to a licensed mental health professional.
A licensed therapist may look at your symptoms and determine whether they relate to dependent personality disorder, borderline personality disorder (which often has several common characteristics), or another mental health condition. A mental health professional may diagnose dependent personality disorder if you meet five or more of the following criteria:
Symptoms of dependent personality disorder according to mental health professionals
According to the Cleveland Clinic, a mental health professional may diagnose dependent personality disorder if you meet five or more of the following criteria:
- An all-consuming, unrealistic fear of being abandoned
- Anxious or helpless feelings and thoughts when alone
- Difficulty managing life responsibilities without seeking help from others
- Problems stating an opinion out of fear of losing support or approval
- A strong drive to get support from others, even choosing to do unenjoyable activities to get it
- Difficulty making everyday decisions without input or reassurance from others
- Trouble starting or completing projects because of a lack of self-confidence or decision-making ability
- Urge to seek a new relationship to provide support and approval when a close relationship ends
Challenges for those with dependent personality disorder
For those living with dependent personality disorder, difficulty making decisions for themselves can lead to significant challenges. The constant worry about what others think about what they do, say, wear, or eat can take a significant toll on their mind and lead them to relationships where they can be entirely dependent on someone else. These relationships might be platonic friendships or romantic relationships. Because one individual may depend entirely on the other, these are often not considered healthy relationships.
For a person with DPD, it can be a challenge to do anything throughout the day without input from someone else. Individuals they rely on may also experience stress if they feel like they must constantly watch out for this other person. Whereas healthy friendships and romantic relationships tend to feature a bit of give and take, with both people offering advice, feedback, and suggestions, in this type of relationship, the person with DPD may struggle without the assistance of the other person.
Treatment for dependent personality disorder
A psychiatrist or therapist may be able to help you experience significant relief from your symptoms. Be open and honest with them about what you are experiencing and how you feel at every stage. A therapist can offer cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help you become more independent, work toward making decisions for yourself, and become more of an active participant in your own life. This support may help you feel less dependent and create healthier relationships, rather than relationships in which you are overly dependent on others.
Medication for personality disorders and important considerations
Medication may be a recommended form of treatment for some individuals who are living with DPD. However, medication generally does not cure DPD. Instead, a psychiatrist may prescribe medication for depression, anxiety, or other co-occurring symptoms that are common for people with DPD.
The BetterHelp platform is not intended to provide any information regarding which drugs, medication, or medical treatment may be appropriate for you. The content provides generalized information that is not specific to one individual. You should not take any action without consulting a qualified medical professional.
Support options for dependent personality disorder
If you think you might be living with dependent personality disorder, you don’t have to face symptoms alone. Speaking with a licensed mental health professional about your symptoms may help you move forward. However, if you are hesitant to visit a therapist’s office, you may be unsure where to turn. In these cases, you might try online therapy through a platform like BetterHelp, which research suggests can be effective in treating various mental health concerns, including personality disorders.
With online therapy, you can communicate with a licensed therapist from the comfort of your home via phone, videoconference, or live chat. You can also contact your therapist anytime via in-app messaging, and they’ll respond as soon as possible. This option may be helpful if you have questions or concerns between therapy sessions.
Takeaway
What is the best therapy for personality disorders like dependent personality disorder?
One of the most widely utilized forms of psychotherapy for dependent personality disorder is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). This modality focuses on helping individuals reframe negative thought processes that may be underlying their symptoms. For example, if a person with dependent personality disorder strongly believes they’re unable to function well when they’re away from their partner, a therapist may help them find evidence that such beliefs aren’t rational.
Psychodynamic therapy is another frequently utilized method of care. Through this modality, individuals can better understand how prior interpersonal relationships influence their current symptoms and how they can develop more self-reliance moving forward. For example, a therapist may help an individual discover that overprotective parenting encourages dependency and then work with them to develop tools for creating more independence.
Can dependent personality disorder be treated with mental health support?
Dependent personality disorder is treatable and manageable with mental health support. Therapy can help someone with dependent personality disorder identify the sources of their excessive desire for the comfort and aid of the people upon which they rely. A therapist can also provide emotional support and address symptoms of any comorbid disorders. Mental health care for personality disorders may also include medication, which can alleviate the symptoms of anxiety or depression that may accompany the condition.
How do you deal with symptoms of dependent personality disorder?
Dependent personality disorder is typically treated with psychotherapy, though medications are sometimes prescribed as well. If you’re living with dependent personality disorder, a healthcare professional can provide you with screenings and determine whether further testing, diagnosis, and treatment are necessary.
How do you treat dependent personality traits?
If an individual is living with dependent personality disorder, several modalities may improve symptoms. Dependent personality disorder treatment often centers around psychotherapy, though medication is also used in some cases. Often, individuals with dependent personality disorder strongly doubt that they can function without the people on whom they rely. Identifying and replacing such maladaptive beliefs can help them alleviate anxiety and take steps toward independence.
What causes triggers for trauma and abuse in dependent personality disorder?
Risk factors for dependent personality disorder include traumatic experiences in childhood and a family history of personality disorders or other mental health conditions. Many individuals with dependent personality disorder experienced some form of abuse at an early age. Environmental influences—such as certain parenting styles or cultural attitudes—are also considered risk factors. For more information on the causes and risk factors of dependent personality disorder, visit the page “Personality Disorders” at Sheppard Pratt.
What is dependent personality disorder first-line treatment?
The first-line treatment for dependent personality disorder is usually psychotherapy. Psychodynamic therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy are most often used for the condition. Psychotherapy can help individuals identify the sources of their symptoms, cope with the emotional challenges of the disorder, and address comorbid mental health concerns.
Medication may also be utilized to help manage symptoms. Dependent personality disorder is a cluster C personality disorder. Conditions in this cluster of personality disorders are typically characterized by anxiety. So, medications that address such symptoms—such as certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications—are sometimes prescribed.
What is an example of a person with dependent personality disorder?
People with dependent personality disorder often believe they are unable to function well without the support of certain loved ones. This belief often manifests as clinging behavior and concerns about abandonment. Individuals with this condition might rely on their loved ones for emotional support, help with daily tasks, and decision-making. They may also engage in people-pleasing behaviors to avoid disagreements with the subject of their dependency. Someone with dependent personality disorder may lie about their competency so that the person they rely on will continue to provide care.
Is personality disorder permanent?
Though the symptoms of dependent personality disorder may persist throughout an individual’s life, they can be treated to limit their effects. The duration of the condition often depends on whether an individual receives treatment, the severity of their symptoms, and other personal circumstances.
Is dependent personality disorder a disability?
According to the Social Security Administration, personality disorders may qualify for disability benefits if the individual can prove that they have an “excessive need to be taken care of” and that this need creates significant limitations.
Does dependent personality disorder get worse with age?
Dependent personality disorder can worsen over time in some cases. Certain risk factors for dependent personality disorder—such as a codependent relationship—may exacerbate symptoms as an individual ages. However, the condition can also be managed so that its symptoms become less severe over time. For more information on treating dependent personality disorder, visit the page “Personality Disorders” at Sheppard Pratt.
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