Treatment:

Antidepressant medications can often make people less sensitive to rejection. However, talk therapy (psychotherapy) is considered to be the most effective treatment for this condition.

Psychodynamic psychotherapy, which helps patients understand their thoughts and feelings, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help. A combination of medication and talk therapy may be more effective than either treatment alone.

Expectations (prognosis):

People with this disorder may develop some ability to relate to others, and this can be improved with treatment.

Complications:

Without treatment, a person with avoidant personality disorder may become resigned to a life of near or total isolation. They may go on to develop a second psychiatric disorder such as substance abuse or a mood disorder such as depression.

Calling your health care provider:

See your health care provider or a psychiatrist if shyness or fear of rejection overwhelms your ability to function in life and relationships.