Treatment for Schizoid Personality Disorder (continued)
Medications
Medication is usually inappropriate for someone with this disorder unless they also have an additional Axis I disorder. Usually antidepressant medication do not make much improvement, unless the patient is also suffering from suicidal ideation or a major depressive episode. Long term medication should be avoided; medication should be prescribed only for acute symptom relief. Also, medication may affect psychotherapy.Self-help
A supportive and non-invasive self-help group can help a person who suffers from schizoid personality disorder overcome fears of closeness and feelings of isolation after he has learn enough minimal social skills. All around the world, there are such groups that devote themselves to helping people with this disorder share their common experiences and feelings.
Patients can be encouraged to try out new coping skills and learn that social attachments to others. They will then realize that they don't have to be fraught with fear or rejection. These groups may become an important part of expanding the individual's skill set and develop new, healthier social relationships.
