Dependent Personality Disorder Treatment in San Diego, California

Fear of novelty and a tendency to be upset by loss and separation are warning signs in early childhood. As adults, those with dependent personality disorder find it hard to think they can cope with everyday life by themselves. Relationships for those with dependent personality disorders can intensify anxiety, discomfort, depression, and other mental health symptoms. It is common for dual diagnoses, such as alcohol or substance disorders, to affect the relationship and are usually seen as ‘If they stopped abusing substances; we would be better off”. Some substance use disorders may include heroin, fentanyl, or others and mask the inner core of healthy attachment in relationships. Substance and mental health disorders may or may not be part of dependent personality disorders. Read on.

Attachment theory tells us that establishing healthy contact and forming moving psychological images catapult the infant to explore their environment and thus achieve a balance between being independent and close to others.  Unfortunately, if parents are inconsistent, absent, or worse yet, abused, children, have a more challenging time calming down when they experience panic, anxiety, anger, or frustration, in addition to adopting a fear and uncertainty role model that they will replicate in their adult relationships.