As a result of intense feelings of distrust and suspicions, paranoid personality disorder (PPD) can be challenging to manage without support. Additionally, there is also a strong link between PPD and substance use disorder (SUD). If PPD is left unaddressed, a person may be more prone to self-medicate with addictive substances and be at risk for developing SUD. To manage PPD and prevent the development of SUD, it can be helpful to seek professional support from Avalon Malibu. Doing so can help someone gain a better understanding of their condition and live a greater quality of life free from drugs and alcohol.
What Is Paranoid Personality Disorder?
According to Paranoid Personality Disorder by Lakshit Jain and Tyler J. Torrico, PPD is a mental health disorder with pervasive symptoms that lead to impaired psychological functioning. The onset of certain behaviors typically begins in early adulthood.
This disorder also increases the likelihood of developing clinical depression, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders. Paranoid thoughts are common; those with PPD often assume that people are deceiving or exploiting them. Many people are preoccupied with doubts regarding loyalty from others and the trustworthiness of peers and loved ones.
What Is Life Like Living With Untreated Paranoid Personality Disorder?
People with PPD find it difficult to focus and maintain a positive mindset due to persistent paranoia. The effects of PPD can cause a person to limit communication with others and to prefer social isolation. Many people with PPD find it hard to understand that their distrust is out of proportion. As a result, they may seek evidence to support their suspicions and maintain their viewpoint.
PPD is generally diagnosed after a professional performs a psychological evaluation. Based on the publication mentioned above, an individual with PPD may undergo a psychiatric evaluation and exam to determine symptoms.
For example, one with PPD may experience social detachment, hypervigilance, suspicion, aggression, or overt paranoia. Individuals with PPD may commonly make accusatory statements or be argumentative. They may even be quick to counterattack, making it challenging for them to collaborate with others. Additionally, individuals with PPD may exhibit the following behaviors:
- Acting hostile and stubborn, as well as making sarcastic expressions
- Assessing others for suicidal and homicidal ideation with each encounter
- Experiencing challenging thought processes such as rigid thinking patterns
- Having negative perceptions of others
- Experiencing auditory and visual hallucinations due to substance use or co-occurring conditions
- Having diminished executive function and processing speed
The Link Between Paranoid Personality Disorder and Substance Use Disorder
Personality disorders and SUD commonly coexist. A dual diagnosis of PPD and SUD creates an important health and socioeconomic impact. The prevalence of SUD is significantly higher in those with cocaine and alcohol use. What’s more, sedative abuse or alcohol abuse increases the risk of an individual having more than one personality disorder.
The Importance of Seeking Professional Support
Knowing that untreated PPD can lead a person to self-medicate with harmful substances, it’s essential to seek professional support. Early intervention can reduce the risk of developing co-occurring mental health conditions such as SUD or other personality disorders.
Pursuing professional treatment can prevent uncomfortable symptoms from worsening and promote recovery and healing. Understandably, some individuals with PPD feel hesitant to move forward with treatment due to intense feelings of distrust, even toward medical professionals.
Moving Forward With Avalon Malibu for Paranoid Personality Disorder
Avalon Malibu offers a professional and supportive environment for those with PPD, SUD, and other mental health concerns. Individuals with PPD often find comfort in knowing they can find understanding and effective treatment strategies at a high-quality recovery center.
The truth is that the FDA has not approved any medications that are effective in treating PPD. However, some prescription medications, such as antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, and antidepressants, may be safely used to decrease specific symptoms and address co-occurring conditions.
Avalon Malibu’s compassionate team of professionals can recommend a wide variety of effective evidence-based therapies. Developing an individualized treatment plan with one of Avalon Malibu’s trained specialists can ensure that a person receives tailored care and achieves the best outcome. Having a personalized care plan can also reduce one’s risk of having a substance relapse. A tailored and holistic treatment plan ensures a safe and comfortable healing process as well as optimal chances of success. Effective psychotherapies offered at Avalon Malibu include the following:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Techniques are used to help the patient focus on the present rather than the past while promoting positive thought patterns and behaviors
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): Techniques are used to help individuals manage their emotions to promote mental stability and improve relationships with loved ones and peers
- Mentalization-based treatment (MBT): Techniques are used to improve an individual’s ability to mentalize specific thoughts and feelings and realize how they correlate with certain behaviors
When individuals with paranoid personality disorder (PPD) undergo treatment at Avalon Malibu, our mental health professionals typically use a combination of therapy and medication to encourage new coping skills, build awareness of paranoid thinking patterns, and improve relationships with others. We combine the latest therapeutic techniques with compassionate care to help break the cycle of paranoia. It’s our goal to help those with PPD foster healthier relationships and a more positive outlook on life. We aim to offer those with PPD a clear path to recovery and empower them to regain confidence in themselves and those around them. We always create an individualized treatment plan for our clients. To find out more, please call Avalon Malibu today at (844) 857-5992.
