Schizotypal Personality Disorder

This overview is for educational purposes only and not to be used for self diagnosis. (Source – Psychology Today)

Schizotypal Personality Disorder is a condition that is characterized by unusual beliefs and fears, and difficulty with forming and maintaining relationships.

 

DISCLAIMER: This information is for educational purposes only and not to be used for self-diagnosis. If you or a loved one can relate to a number of features listed below, then please do use our therapist directory to find a psychiatrist, psychologist or therapist that is right for you to receive a professional diagnosis.

What are the primary symptoms/signs of the condition?

  • Discomfort in social situations
  • Unusual beliefs, fantasies or preoccupations
  • Unusual behaviour or appearance
  • Unusual speech
  • Difficulty making/keeping friendships
  • Inappropriate display of feelings
  • Suspiciousness or paranoia

 

Please Note: This information is for educational purposes only and not to be used for self-diagnosis. If you or a loved one can relate to a number of features listed below, then please do use our therapist directory to find a psychiatrist, psychologist or therapist that is right for you to receive a professional diagnosis.

What factors can be contributing causes?

  • As with most personality disorders, the cause of schizotypal personality disorder is unknown, but it is increasingly reported among relatives of those with the same condition, as well as those whose relatives are on the schizophrenia spectrum; suggesting that it may be hereditary – or passed down through generations. 
  • The risk factors during pregnancy that apply to schizophrenia are also relevant to schizotypal personality disorder, including maternal exposure to certain viruses.
  • Drug use may be a contributing factor for people already at risk of developing this disorder due to an underlying genetic predisposition.

  • A general practitioner (GP) or psychologist can usually diagnose schizotypal personality disorder by asking questions about a person’s medical history and symptoms.
  • The GP/psychologist will also inquire about a patient’s physical health to ensure that the unusual behavior and beliefs are not caused as a result of an underlying medical condition, or by factors such as drug or alcohol use.
  • The GP/psychologist will check the symptoms that the patient presents with against the standard criteria for schizotypal personality disorder before making a diagnosis.

What is the recommended treatment?

  • Schizotypal patients rarely seek treatment for their disorder, and they tend to seek treatment from depressive problems instead.
  • Some people with this disorder may be helped by antipsychotic medications, but therapy is preferable for most. 
  • Because the characteristics of this disorder cannot be changed drastically for those with moderate to extreme cases, therapy is often aimed at helping people with this disorder establish a satisfying life on their own.
  • Behavioral modification, a cognitive-behavioral treatment approach, can allow schizotypal personality disorder patients to stop experiencing some of their unusual thoughts and behaviors. 
  • Recognizing abnormalities by watching videotapes and meeting with a therapist to improve speech habits are two effective methods of treatment.

  • Schizotypal personality disorder affects 3%-4% of the general population. 

If you are experiencing any of these signs, here are some activities you can do at home until you are able to consult a professional.

    • Exercise
    • Engage in creative outlets such as writing, painting, or music
    • Keep a gratitude journal
    • Talk to a family member or friend about how you are feeling
    • Practice Mindfulness
    • Practice Yoga
    • Engage in a well-balanced diet
    • Maintain a good sleep schedule 

# Schizotypal Personality Disorder
1 Discussion forums 7Cups

Mental Health Forum; Schizotypal Personality Disorder

Carers UK
2 Facebook pages Schizotypal Personality Disorder

Schizotypal Personality Group 

 
3 Mobile apps Personality Disorder Tests

Wounded Personalities
4 Instagram Lena Lu (Crumpled Stories)
6 Other Blogs:

Time to Change- Personality Disorders

 

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