They share several characteristics but are classified differently.
An estimated 6.8% of the U.S. population is affected by SAD.
According to some research, 32 to 50% of people with AVPD also suffer from SAD.
JGI / Jamie Grill / Getty Images
JGI / Jamie Grill / Getty Images
What Is Avoidant Personality Disorder?
People with AVPD expect to be rejected by others, and they believe this perceived rejection reflectsinferiorityon their part.
They are also highly sensitive to criticism.
To cope with this, people with AVPD engage in widespread avoidance of social interaction.
It also can interfere with other areas of their life such as employment.
How Are AVPD and SAD Similar?
AVPD and SAD involve discomfort and anxiety in social options.
People with either condition tend to avoid situations where they may feel judged, criticized, or embarrassed.
They don’t like to be the focus of attention.
What Is Social Anxiety?
This worry can start well ahead ofeven weeks beforethe situation.
The anxiety from SAD can interfere with work, school, activities, and relationships (including friendships).
While people with AVPD and SAD actively avoid interacting with others, they often long for closeness with others.
How Are AVPD and SAD Different?
AVPD and SAD are similar in a lot of ways, but there are several distinctions between them.
Classification
AVPD is apersonality disorder.
These patterns are consistent and long term, not fleeting or occasional.
SAD is ananxiety disorder.
AVPD is rooted in negative self-evaluation compared to others.
A person with AVPD typically experiences a level of avoidance that affects all areas of their life.
People with AVPD can also take a stab at protect themselves by suppressing their emotions.
This emotional suppression often occurs in close relationships, not just publicly or with new people.
How Are AVPD and SAD Diagnosed?
Diagnosis for both AVPD and SAD typically begins with a visit to your primary healthcare provider.
The healthcare provider will:
A mental health professional will do a more detailed assessment todetermine a precise diagnosis.
How Are AVPD and SAD Treated?
Therapy
Psychotherapy (talk therapy) is the first-line treatment for both AVPD and SAD.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)is the most common therapy for both AVPD and SAD.
CBT involves identifying problematic thinking processes and behaviors and changing them into healthy, productive ones.
Based on the principles of CBT, an approach called schema therapy may help people with AVPD.
Schema therapy uses cognitive, behavioral, and emotion-focused techniques to change long-held, entrenched, self-defeating life patterns.
What Is a Schema?
Medication
Medications used to treat SAD include:
Medication is not typically the primary treatment for AVPD.
Some medications may be given for certain symptoms of the disorder or for co-occurring conditions such asantidepressantsfor depression.
With treatment, both conditions can improve, but neither is likely to go away without help.
If you or a loved one is in immediate danger, call911.
Summary
AVPD and SAD are different conditions with similar characteristics.
They often occur together.
People with either condition may avoid and feel uncomfortable in social situations.
People with SAD do so because they fear judgment from others.
People with AVPD have a negative self-view and are sensitive to rejection and criticism, even if just perceived.
CBT is a recommended treatment for both disorders.
Schema therapy is an emerging treatment for AVPD.
For a diagnosis, see your healthcare provider.
SAD is an anxiety disorder, which is a recognized mental health illness.
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