What is it?
Avoidant personality disorder is one of several personality disorders which leave sufferers unable to live a full and productive life. Sufferers experience entrenched feelings of inadequacy which leave them socially inhibited and extremely vulnerable to the opinions of others. These feelings result in sufferers often choosing to avoid work, school or any social activity out of fear of censure and criticism. Increasingly common in urban gay communities, it can be addressed with psychotherapy and counselling for gay men in London
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of Avoidant Personality Disorder typically begin appearing in adolescence or early adulthood, and decreasing with age. Sufferers tend to be constantly anxious, and feel the need to constantly appraise those they come into contact with for signs of criticism or ridicule. Too often this fear becomes a self-fulfilling prophesy, as others sense their anxiety, insecurity and isolation. This constant hypersensitivity, fear of rejection, and low self-esteem can have a severe impact upon occupational and social functioning. Sufferers are often socially isolated and their lack of engagement at work can seriously impact career progression.
What causes it?
Although the precise cause of the disorder isn’t known, health professionals generally subscribe to a biopsychosocial explanation. In other words, it is likely the causes are a combination of genetics, social factors such as interactions during early developmental stages, and inherent temperament. In my clinical experience many of my clients who have struggled with Avoidant Personality disorder had suffered traumas in their past. Trauma therapy often comprises part of the treatment when I work with Avoidant Personality Disorder.
How is it diagnosed?
Many people with avoidant personality disorder don’t seek treatment until the condition begins to significantly impact upon their lives, as doing so necessitates a potentially socially awkward consultation, but the condition can be effectively treated by a psychologist or psychiatrist. They will generally compare your symptoms against those associated with the disorder, and make a determination as to whether they meet the criteria for the disorder.
How is it treated?
Treatment generally involves psychotherapy with someone experienced in treating this kind of personality disorder. Counselling in London for gay men can either be ongoing, or more commonly when sufferers are overwhelmed by stressful events which exacerbate the symptoms of their condition. Individual therapy sessions tend to focus on the immediate problems which are causing difficulty, and developing strategies for coping with these, and potentially applying to future events. Once this has been achieved, whether it be in one or several sessions, the patient will generally be able to leave further treatment.
Getting support
For more information about avoidant personality disorder, or to book a consultation on any subject, contact me today.
You can call Justin on T: 07717 664177 or justin@justinduwe.com
