Paranoid Personality Disorder

Alternate Names : Paranoia

What are the treatments for the condition?

Because a person with PPD has trouble trusting others, it is hard for a therapist to form a trusting relationship with him or her. Medications have been shown to be useful for reducing the anxiety and agitation often linked with PPD. Nonaddictive anti-anxiety medications have been effective. Low-dose antipsychotic medications have been used for brief periods for individuals with more severe symptoms. A person with PPD is usually wary of any medications.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Side effects depend on the medication used to treat the disorder, but may include allergic reactions and drowsiness.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

People with PPD often do not follow the prescribed treatment plan. This resistance to treatment can make the PPD worse. In this case, the person may need to be hospitalized.

How is the condition monitored?

Personality disorders are chronic. Someone with PPD needs to be monitored on an ongoing basis. Some people are completely disabled by this condition and must be placed in a mental health facility or group home.