Online Therapy for Dependent Personality Disorder.
Overview
As an online therapist, I'm here to provide support and guidance in understanding and overcoming the symptoms of dependent personality disorder (DPD). DPD is characterized by an intense and overwhelming need to be cared for, often accompanied by fears of being alone, abandoned, or disappointing others.
Individuals with DPD may have been labeled as "clingy" or "needy" by others who may not comprehend the persistent self-doubt they experience or their need for comfort and direction.
Symptoms of DPD
Symptoms of DPD typically begin to manifest in early adulthood and may include:
Difficulty making everyday decisions without outside advice
Needing others to assume responsibility for major areas of your life
Tendency to agree with others instinctively
Lack of confidence to initiate tasks independently
Need for constant reassurance and support from others
Discomfort, anxiety, boredom, or helplessness when alone
Urgent need to find someone new when a relationship ends
Separation anxiety
DPD can manifest differently in each person, with negative thoughts such as "I'm unlovable" or "I just can't" driving the individual to subconsciously seek additional care from others. This cycle can continue, leading to self-criticism, self-doubt, avoidance of responsibility at work, steering clear of social situations, lack of autonomy, and masking insecurities.
What is Important?
It's important to distinguish DPD from codependency. While they may appear similar, DPD involves a constant need to be cared for, whereas codependency involves the compulsion to be needed by another person.
The causes of DPD are not yet fully understood, but it's generally believed that a combination of genetic, environmental, and traumatic factors may contribute to its development.
The good news is that DPD is treatable through talk therapies, mindfulness, and education. As you work with your treatment team to create a therapeutic program, you can also make emotional intelligence changes to manage DPD while staying true to yourself.
Acknowledging how DPD affects your life is an essential step towards living a fulfilling life without letting the disorder dictate your actions. I'm here to support you on this journey, so please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.