Understanding Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD)_ When Dependence Becomes a Struggle

1. Understanding Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD): When Dependence Becomes a Struggle Have you ever come across a person who requires constant reassurance, is always unable to make tiny decisions on their own? They may say things like, “I don’t know what to do unless you tell me”, not once or twice, but repeatedly. It can be a sign of Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD), a condition where a person looks for extreme care and depends too much on others in their daily life. What Is Dependent Personality Disorder? Dependent Personality Disorder is a type of anxious personality disorder, where people excessively depend on other people for emotional and physical needs. People with DPD fear being deserted and lack self-confidence. They cannot stand alone and feel they cannot make decisions without advice or direction from others. DPD is mostly undiagnosed, especially in cultures where dependency is socially accommodated. That is why early diagnosis through professional guidance with the best psychologist in Kerala can make a tremendous difference in the lives of silently suffering individuals. DPD vs. Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Although both DPD and BPD have relationship issues, they differ significantly in numerous ways. Individuals with BPD will have dramatic mood swings, impulsive behaviours, and unstable relationships with high abandonment anxiety. DPD, however, involves passive behaviour, over-submissiveness, and reassurance-seeking.

2. Symptoms of DPD Difficulty in making everyday decisions without reassurance Fear of being alone or abandoned Tolerance of abuse or mistreatment simply to maintain a relationship Avoidance of personal responsibility Excessive sensitivity to criticism Helplessness or depression when relationships end Lack of self-confidence What leads to Dependent Personality Disorder? Several reasons that contribute to DPD are: Childhood abuse or abusive relationships Overprotective or dictatorial parenting Religious or cultural values that encourage submissiveness Genetic or family history of personality disorder How Can Therapy Help? DPD can be treated with the methods of psychotherapy, particularly Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Here is how therapy helps. Establish self-confidence Make healthy boundaries Learn decision-making Decrease fear of abandonment Understand and manage anxiety

3. With weekly sessions of the top online psychology counselling services in Kochi, clients learn to lead independent lives by gradually building resilience. Therapists also resolve deeply embedded emotional patterns, including family counselling when required. The Role of Online Therapy With online counselling and therapy services in Kerala, patients can now access professional treatment from their own homes. It has become more convenient, especially for those who do not want to make it to clinics. Virtual therapy has worked in the treatment of DPD by offering consistent, secure, and personalised mental care. Conclusion Dependent Personality Disorder is not a mere dependence it is an extreme level of dependency. But through proper guidance and support, you can overcome this. If you or someone in your life shows symptoms of DPD, it is important to get professional assistance.