Currently, there are not any comprehensive, evidence-based practices for treating this personality disorder. Instead, treatment for schizoid personality disorder is based largely on theory.

A person with schizoid personality disorder displays detachment from social relationships and has a restricted range of emotions. Many people do not seek treatment due to not recognizing their behaviors as symptoms of the disorder. While there is no cure for schizoid personality disorder, there are treatment options to help people manage their struggles.

Treatment for schizoid personality disorder is a developing area that clinicians continue to study and research. Currently, there are not any comprehensive, evidence-based practices for treating this personality disorder. Instead, treatment for schizoid personality disorder is based largely on theory.

Medications for Schizoid Personality Disorder

Schizoid personality disorder, like similar disorders, is not caused by chemical imbalances in the brain. Medications are typically not used for treating schizoid personality disorder. However, this disorder often co-occurs with depressive symptoms, and anti-depressant drugs may be administered to patients to reduce the effects of depression. Personality disorders are generally treated through individual therapy sessions.

Therapy for Schizoid Personality Disorder

Therapy is the most common form of treatment for schizoid personality disorder and often used in conjunction with medication. The following are some possible therapeutic methods:

  • Psychotherapy. Psychotherapy of talk therapy can help individuals with schizoid personality disorder develop closer relationships by challenging their negative beliefs and helping with emotional expression.
  • Exposure Therapy. If a person with schizoid personality disorder does seek treatment and is motivated to learn coping strategies, exposure therapy is an effective option. Exposure therapy involves slowly adapting the patient to uncomfortable situations For schizoid personality disorder, this therapy technique aims to slowly reduce discomfort in social situations.
  • Group Therapy. Group therapy is a common treatment tactic for many mental health disorders and people struggling with addiction. However, group therapy in a more traditional sense among people with other diagnoses may be ineffective for someone with schizoid personality disorder, because they would likely feel threatened in a setting that included other people.

Treating Schizoid Personality Disorder and Co-Occurring Conditions

People with schizoid personality disorder often have co-occurring disorders as well. Co-occurring depression and anxiety are relatively common with schizoid personality disorder. These disorders are often treated through talk therapy as well as medication management. Treating these co-occurring disorders effectively can also help to bring some relief to a schizoid personality disorder patient.

Treating schizoid personality disorder and substance abuse can be difficult. To make progress in treating schizoid personality disorder, any addiction and dependence must be treated either first or concurrently. Treating for schizoid personality disorder but not for the substance use disorder can result in continued abuse of drugs or alcohol and lead to setbacks in the person’s recovery from their mental illness.

If you or a loved one need treatment for substance abuse and a co-occurring mental illness like schizoid personality disorder, The Recovery Village can help. A renowned network of facilities with locations in each region of the country, The Recovery Village offers comprehensive treatment for mental health disorders when paired with an addiction to drugs or alcohol. The team of nurses, doctors, intake coordinators and therapists can help you or a loved one heal from addiction safely.

Related Topic: Schizotypal personality disorder treatment

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Editor – Devin Golden
Devin Golden has worked for various print and digital news organizations. Devin's family has been affected by addiction and mental health disorders, which is a large part of why he wants to help others who have either directly or indirectly been affected by these diseases. Read more
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Medically Reviewed By – Denise-Marie Griswold, LCAS
Denise-Marie Griswold is a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist. She earned her Master's Degree in Substance Abuse and Clinical Counseling from East Carolina University in 2014. Read more
Medical Disclaimer

The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.