What Is Dependent Personality Disorder?

Dependent personality disorder (DPD) is an anxiety condition that is characterised by an inability to be alone. People with this condition require constant reassurance. They rely on other people for comfort, support, reassurance, and advice in order to function on a daily basis.

People with DPD will develop symptoms of anxiety when not around other people. They can become devastated if a relationship is ended and they may even suffer abuse to stay in a relationship. They may belittle themselves and their abilities and frequently refer to themselves as stupid. This disorder will normally first show in early to mid-adulthood.

The DSM V (Diagnostical Statistical Manual 5) classifies personality disorder in clusters and DPD is classified under Cluster C. Cluster C also includes Obsessive-Compulsive personality disorder and Avoidant Personality disorder.

Symptoms Of DPD

A person with DPD will have a pervasive and excessive need to be taken care of. This leads to submissive and clinging behaviour and fears of separation. DPD often begins by early adulthood and presents in a variety of contexts, as indicated by five (or more) of the following:

1. A person with DPD has difficulty making everyday decisions without an excessive amount of advice and reassurance from others. They may rely on friends or family for decision-making. But they also may be naive, so could be taken advantage of.
2. Needs others to assume responsibility for most major areas of his or her life.
3. Has difficulty expressing disagreement with others. This is because of an unrealistic fear of loss of support, approval or fears of retribution.
4. They have difficulty initiating projects or doing things on his or her own. Because of a lack of self-confidence in their own judgement or abilities rather than a lack of motivation or energy.
5. A person with DPD goes to excessive lengths to obtain nurturance and support from others. This will be to the point of volunteering to do things that are unpleasant for them.
6. Feels uncomfortable or helpless when alone. This is because of exaggerated fears of being unable to care for himself or herself.
7. Urgently seeks another relationship as a source of care and support when a close relationship ends. Fears rejections, easily hurt by disapproval and criticism.
8. Is unrealistically preoccupied with fears of being left to take care of himself or herself. Fears of abandonment.

So when a person with DPD is alone they may be nervous, anxious, have panic attacks, feel fearful or/and hopeless.

It is of course not unusual for people with anxiety disorders, depression or menopause to experience some of these symptoms also.

Causes Of DPD

It is thought that about 1% of the population may have DPD and more women are likely to develop it than men. The exact cause is unknown but genetics and childhood developmental factors are thought to play a strong role.

The disorder usually appears in early adulthood. Individuals who experienced separation anxiety disorder or chronic physical illness in childhood or adolescence are at more risk of developing this disorder.

Some other risk factors that might play a part include the following:

1. There is a history of neglect
2. They may have had an abusive upbringing
3. A person with DPD may be in a long-term, abusive relationship
4. As children they may have had overprotective or authoritarian parents
5. There could be a family history of anxiety disorders

How’s DPD diagnosed?

Your GP (main doctor) is your first port of call always. They can refer you to a specialist for diagnosis after ruling out any physical illnesses. A psychiatrist or psychologist are the people who usually diagnoses DPD. They’ll want a detailed history of your symptoms. How long you have been experiencing these symptoms? They will also want to know about your family, childhood and current life. All of this will help them diagnose you and recommend the best possible treatments.

Treatment Of DPD

Treatment will focus on relieving the symptoms. So may include medication for anxiety, depression and panic attacks. As well as therapy such as Psychotherapy and Cognitive-behavioural therapy. Therapy will help you understand the condition better and your underlying beliefs and thought patterns. It can also teach you new ways to build healthy relationships with others and improve your self-esteem.

People with DPD generally improve with treatment. Many of the symptoms associated with the condition will decrease as treatment continues. Early treatment is important as it can prevent complications arising for the person. So please seek help as soon as you suspect you have this disorder.

Complications Of DPD If Left Untreated

Some of the following disorders may develop:

1. anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder, avoidant personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD)
2. Depression
3. Substance abuse
4. Phobias

Living With Someone Who Has DPD

Living with anyone who had DPD can be overwhelming. You will need support also. So please seek therapy yourself.

If you suspect your loved one has DPD encourage them to seek help before their condition worsens. Offer to go with them to see their GP as they are often uncomfortable about seeking help for their symptoms. They will need reassurance from you and you should focus on why you love them and want only the best for them.

Their quality of life will be affected if their symptoms continue. They are at risk of long term anxiety, depression, substance abuse issues if left untreated.

If you have been in this relationship for long (parent or partner) you will have entered into the primary caregiver and support role for your loved one. Individuals with DPD will rely on their family to decide what friends, hobbies, interests and jobs they should have, even down to what clothes to wear. These individuals tend to be passive and allow other people (normally one other person) to take the initiative and assume responsibility for most major areas of their lives. This condition is inflexible, maladaptive, and can cause dysfunction and distress.

As a caregiver you will also feel stressed, exasperated, and exhausted at times. This can lead to your own mental and physical health breaking down. You need to learn to set boundaries and get support too. So even if the person with DPD is unwilling to get help you will have to change your pattern of interaction with them. Therapy can help you do this in an appropriate manner.

Work With Me.

Remember you are allowed to ask for support. No one is an island. If you need extra support then you can also work with me. We all struggle with stress and overwhelm from time to time. If you find this has become a problem for you and you’d like some support then schedule an appointment with me.