Treatment

If you have schizoid personality disorder, you may prefer to go your own way and avoid interacting with others, including doctors. You may be so used to a life without emotional closeness that you're not sure you want to change — or that you can.

You might agree to start treatment only at the urging of a family member who is concerned about you. But help from a mental health professional who's experienced in treating schizoid personality disorder can have a major positive impact. Treatment options include:

• Talk therapy (psychotherapy). Psychotherapy can be helpful. If you'd like to develop closer relationships, a modified form of cognitive behavioral therapy may help you change the beliefs and behaviors that are problems. A therapist understands your need for personal space and how difficult it is for you to open up about your inner life. He or she can listen to and help guide you without pushing too hard.
• Group therapy. A goal of individual treatment may be a group setting in which you can interact with others who are also practicing new interpersonal skills. In time, group therapy may also provide a support structure and improve your social skills.
• Medications. Although there's no specific drug to treat schizoid personality disorder, certain drugs can help with issues such as anxiety or depression.

With appropriate treatment and a skilled therapist, you can make significant progress and improve your quality of life.