Depressive Personality Disorder Treatment

Depressive personality disorder is one of the types of personality disorders that is not easily identified. It is also known as melancholic personality disorder. As the name suggests, individuals suffering from this disorder are melancholic and often pessimistic.

They also suffer from mood swings and appear inflexible. These qualities are also found in several other personality disorders which is why it very difficult to diagnose this personality type. The disorder is usually marked under the category, 'personality type not specified otherwise'.

These individuals are marked by characteristic pessimism. They appear depressed and dejected. They are often joyless which can be disheartening to all those around them. The pessimism makes them introverts and detached from the society. 

Although they suffer from mood swings, they more often are unhappy and melancholic (hence, the name 'melancholic personality disorder'). They are also overly critical and judgmental of others. They have a constant feeling of guilt and worthlessness. Their brooding nature leads to low self-esteem.

This can have either of the two effects: these individuals can be loners or even derogatory with others. People suffering from melancholic personality disorder suffer from anxiety and may become arrogant if forced to change. But, they have a inability to express their emotions and feelings.

As mentioned, the diagnosis of this personality disorder is very difficult and controversial. If you take a look at the aforementioned symptoms, you will find that they are similar to the symptoms of other pesonality disorders. Secondly, the symptoms of this disorder depend on the severity of the condition and also vary according to it.

Therefore, diagnosing the condition quickly is very difficult. Secondly, the person who actually suffers from the disorder will never accept that he suffers from it. Therefore, if you observe any of these symptoms from a near and dear one, you should advise him / her to undertake the depressive personality disorder test in order to diagnose the condition.

Similar to many other personality disorders, there is no known cause for this disorder. It can be caused due to a variety of reasons like inherited traits, childhood experiences, or any other influences. Therefore, as there is no specific known cause for the condition, there are no medications that can help in curing the condition completely.

However, certain drugs, like those meant for mood enhancement, may be helpful in treating the symptoms of the condition. Sometimes, it is found that depression and other symptoms are observed due to side effects of certain physical illness. In that case, it is essential to diagnose the underlying condition and get it treated first.

On the other hand, different types of therapies are very beneficial in treating this disorder. Group therapy is one of the best and the most effective methods of treating melancholic personality disorder. A session including the patient alone and later with the family members or a group can help the person in overcoming the disorder.

Secondly, other therapies like personality psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), etc., are also used. The treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Therapies are used in mild and moderate conditions; the doctor may prescribe drugs for severe disorders. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.

Depressive personality disorder, in mild and moderate cases, can be treated to a great extent. But there is no permanent cure for it. However, the help and support from the family members can help in bringing the condition under control. Therefore, it is essential to identify the symptoms as earlier as possible and look for proper treatment. Take care!