People who suffer from avoidance personality disorder characteristically avoid any situation that might cause embarrassment or humiliation. As a result, these persons avoid social settings, turn their back on opportunities that involve contact with others and have few close friends. While sufferers appear to isolate themselves, they desire close relationships. However, their inability to control their social anxiety holds them back.
Instructions
1. Get a formal diagnosis from a psychiatrist. Avoidance personality disorder differs from shyness and can mimic other personality disorders. It’s best to visit a general practitioner and get a referral to a psychiatrist, an expert trained to assess and diagnose mental health conditions.
2. Commit to psychotherapy sessions. Getting a diagnosis is only the first step. To make any progress, sufferers need to receive ongoing therapy sessions. These can include both individual and group sessions.
3. Take prescription medications as directed by a physician. Avoidance personality disorder is a life-long battle, and many sufferers require anti-depressants or anti-anxiety medications. These medications can help reduce anxiety in social settings.
4. Learn deal with criticism. Persons who live with avoidance personality disorder are hyper-sensitive to criticism and rejection. Unfortunately, both are unavoidable. They let negative comments or humiliations impact their life. Accept criticism and dispel negative thoughts about self.
5. Resolve to confront social fears. Overcoming avoidance personality disorder isn’t easy, and relapses are common. Yet, there are ways for suffers to come out of isolation and enjoy the company of others. Therapy and anti-anxiety medications can help sufferers attain the confidence needed to confront social situations.
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