Schizotypal personality disorder is a mental disorder characterized by a reduced capacity for intimate relationships, great discomfort in relating to others and eccentric behavior, causing symptoms such as distrust or lack of affection towards others.
People with this disorder have a greater risk of suffering from depression, anxiety, problems in relationships with others, problems with alcohol and drugs, schizophrenia, psychotic episodes or even suicide attempts, so treatment should be carried out as soon as possible. the first symptoms appear.
This disorder generally appears in adulthood and treatment consists of psychotherapy sessions and the use of antidepressant or antipsychotic medications recommended by the psychiatrist.
Main symptoms
The main symptoms of schizotypal personality disorder are:
- Difficulty establishing intimate relationships;
- Feeling of discomfort when maintaining contact or social and interpersonal relationships;
- Feeling that other people can be harmful;
- Distrust, doubts about loyalty and lack of affection towards others;
- Lack of close friends or confidants, other than close family members;
- Bizarre beliefs, such as telepathy or superstitions;
- Excessive social anxiety that does not ease with familiarity.
A person with schizotypal personality disorder has eccentric behavior, speech, and appearance, and unusual thinking, perceptions, and speech, similar to schizophrenia.
Additionally, there is an increased risk of developing depression or even thoughts or attempts at suicide.
Read too: What are personality disorders (and 10 most common types)
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How to confirm the diagnosis
The diagnosis of schizotypal personality disorder is made by a psychiatrist or psychologist by evaluating the symptoms, as well as at what age they started and health history.
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Generally, the diagnosis of schizotypal personality disorder is confirmed when the person presents at least 5 symptoms and is an adult, over 18 years old, as during childhood and adolescence the personality is still forming and evolving.
Possible causes
The exact cause of schizotypal personality disorder is not completely known, however, it is believed that genetic, biological and environmental factors may contribute to its development.
This is because it has been observed that this disorder occurs more frequently in people who have family members with schizophrenia or other personality disorders.
Thus, childhood experiences are environmental factors that can have a great influence on a person’s personality, increasing the risk of developing schizotypal personality disorder.
How the treatment is carried out
The treatment of schizotypal personality disorder must be carried out with the guidance of a psychiatrist and psychologist, with psychotherapy sessions and the use of medication.
Thus, the main treatments are:
1. Cognitive-behavioral therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy for schizotypal personality disorder aims to stimulate the development of social skills and help people understand how their thoughts affect emotions and behaviors, reducing anxiety and depression. Find out how cognitive-behavioral therapy is done.
This type of treatment must be carried out by a psychologist who can also recommend other strategies, such as group therapy or family therapy.
Read too: Depression and anxiety: what they are, symptoms, how to differentiate and treatment
tuasaude.com/depressao-e-ansiedade
2. Medicines
Medications for schizotypal personality disorder are prescribed by a psychiatrist to reduce symptoms or treat associated conditions, such as depression or anxiety.
Thus, medications may be indicated, such as antidepressants, anxiolytics, antipsychotics or mood stabilizers, for example.
