Understanding Schizoid Personality vs Autism Spectrum

Schizoid personality disorder falls under cluster A of the personality disorders. Cluster A disorders are characterized as odd or eccentric. The three personalities in this group are Schizoid, Schizotypal and Paranoid.
Schizoid personality is defined as follows:
It’s a pervasive pattern of detachment from social relationships and a restricted range of expression of emotions in interpersonal settings, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by four (or more) of the following:
1. Neither desires nor enjoys close relationships, including being part of a family.
2. Almost always chooses solitary activities.
3. Has little, if any, interest in having sexual experiences with another person.
4. Takes pleasure in few, if any, activities.
5. Lacks close friends or confidants other than first-degree relatives.
6. Appears indifferent to the praise or criticism of others.
7. Shows emotional coldness, detachment, or flattened affectivity.
The social impact of this personality can cause occupational problems because of the way that you interact with people. A person with schizoid personality would be best suited for a job where you can work alone with minimal supervision. Working with the team is the last thing you need to do. Because of your aloofness in relationships, family members may reject you.
Sometimes autism spectrum disorder can look very much like schizoid personality. Autism spectrum disorder is a brain development disorder where there are delays in your brain development beginning in childhood. This causes difficulties with social interaction, communication and repetitive behaviors. Often people with autism spectrum will have impaired sensory processing. So they may be hypersensitive to certain sounds or textures. It’s a spectrum illness because the degree to which a person is impaired ranges from low functioning to high functioning.
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Disclaimer: All of the information on this channel is for educational purposes and not intended to be specific/personal medical advice from me to you. Watching the videos or getting answers to comments/question, does not establish a doctor-patient relationship. If you have your own doctor, perhaps these videos can help prepare you for your discussion with your doctor.

[@abdulshukoor]

I have schizoid personality. Lockdown hasn’t caused me any kind of claustrophobia.

[@abdulshukoor]

@@XcooldereX exactly. I always need a break after dealing with little children in my family.

[@shadrach6299]

I like lockdown

[@peterbowman5358]

I was like, "oh, it's like everyday?"

[@elsaaforges]

To me lockdown was the best thing ever happened in my whole life. I woke up every day crying of joy.

[@Nicolletta13]

I was a shut in before it was cool.

[@ratgirl13]

I have schizoid personality disorder, I don’t seek help because I don’t see myself as having a problem-that other people do doesn’t bother me at all-I just want to be left alone to pursue my interests; and enjoy very limited contact with others as one isn’t the loneliest number.

[@Tiamat_X]

I love my solitude, but if I say that to people, they inevitably take it as a negative comment - It took me a long time to realize that people viewed it this way... Human interactions are both exhausting and confusing.

[@captainamerica6182]

I see absolutely nothing wrong with what you want or desire. It actually sounds like it might be pretty serene, just remember that their are others in your world, different types of people, some of them will be unavoidable, that is life. We are all sharing the same air, the same foods, the same space, let's be understanding of each other at least from a clinical/medical standpoint. Otherwise, it is all out war.

[@chrislim7976]

I hope you understand how self absorbed you come across to most people. In less but more accurate words, you don't care about anyone.

[@Tiamat_X]

@Chris Lim: Irony thy name be pretentious, sanctimonious outrage.

[@chrislim7976]

@@Tiamat_X I can see why in fact you shouldn't interact with society now. Go back to your video game please.

[@mythic_snake]

My son is on the autism spectrum, and I believe I may be schizoid. I was told by a therapist a long time ago that she thought I might be. I do have some very mild traits of autism (extremely sensitive to sensory input, very little eye contact, struggle with social skills), but not really pronounced enough to diagnose as autistic. But I know that it's hereditary, and my son probably got it from me. I identify strongly with almost all the schizoid traits though. I don't want to be this way, and I have this weird cognitive dissonance between wishing I had friends but also wanting NOTHING to do with other people. You mentioned that you weren't sure why more schizoids don't go to therapy. I can tell you from my own experience at least... I have been in and out of therapy in an attempt to better myself, and it pretty much always goes nowhere because therapists try to "redirect" your "negativity" every time you try to open up which feels very invalidating and dismissive, and suggest things like group therapy which is a horror I do not wish to experience, and they just generally make you feel like every thought and feeling you're having is wrong, and here's a worksheet. It's also been a recurring problem in therapy when I mention things like having no interest in activities or feeling "flat" most of the time, they immediately jump to the conclusion that I'm depressed and hyperfocus on treating me from that assumption. Or when I mention that I have all these issues with socializing and how it makes me feel, they assume that the best thing for me is to just do some deep breathing exercises and imagine myself on a beach, and I should be able to overcome those feelings. I know that therapists probably think I'm being "resistant" or "difficult" but all I really need is for them to meet me where I am, and not expect me to fake normal so they can follow their script. So from my perspective it is they who are uncooperative, and I just eventually stop going back. Anyway, I hope this sheds some light on some of the mystery.

[@lumiere2598]

Oh god that sounds horrible. I am looking for a therapist to explain my weird behaviours for me and confirm (or deny) the fact that I have schizoid, but it seems like finding a good therapist for this is really hard huh? I have found similar comments like you said but online. I looked everywhere to find people with experience like mine before I know the term "schizoid", and people's advice are always "you are just disappointed because you idealize people" or "you must have suffered from some childhood trauma, now you are too afraid to get close". It is very frustrating, and here I thought therapy would be better.

[@Stephanopoulosdion]

@@lumiere2598 Reading the Party of One: The Loner's Manifesto & various old psych books on the subject helped me a lot in understanding schizoid. All therapy essentially does is allows you to either cope, medicate, or present more social (fake it).

[@doreal]

You don't believe you are autistic?

[@mythic_snake]

@@doreal I'm pretty sure I'm on the spectrum, but I've had several doctors say that my symptoms weren't significant enough for an official diagnosis.

[@doreal]

@@mythic_snake Doctors are biased and women often aren't diagnosed. However, I don't understand why they would dismiss you when your son was diagnosed with ASD.

[@Ataraxy123]

In my early twenties, my family pushed me to get tested for Asperger's. I was diagnosed with Schizoid PD instead.

[@saljpal3]

It's so annoying when family members see symptoms of schizoid personality disorder as such a big problem even though you don't have a problem with them.

[@saljpal3]

@Shades of Blue Luckily I don't have that problem because I know how to pretend to be sociable around new people and coworkers even though I'm actually indifferent. Only my family and friends know my real personality.

[@saljpal3]

@Shades of Blue I know that full well, as long as it's in small increments I can pretend to give a shit. Luckily my family has come to terms with my personality and all my friends are also fucked up in the head. 😂

[@socialmimicry]

Were they part of the assessment process? I ask that because Autism is centred on persistent social and communication issues that were around since childhood. For example, my mother, in my assessment, could say that I didn't really start speaking sentences until age six. However, my adult level of communication places me as someone with no communication issues when speaking, including no grammatical errors. However, I am considered severe in terms of social communication. You see, knowing how to speak and social engagement are two seperate things. Schizoid, as the youtuber mentions, emerges around adulthood and not childhood.

[@contourintegral8571]

@@socialmimicry Around childhood a schizoid emerges, very much so and most of the time he does emerge in childhood.

[@jimon82262]

Wow, thank you, as a diagnosed schizoid I've debated going into therapy several times. The main reason Im hesitant to start therapy is that opening up to someone is rather threatening, The stakes go waaay up, and its a big commitment to find a good therapist. Also the more impacted your life is from the disorder; the less likely you will be able to afford quality treatment.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

That’s A very good point. Clinics that are funded to help low income people are often crowded and not easy to navigate when it comes to getting therapy.

[@ashleypearson7848]

​@@DrTraceyMarkstrue and not only that when you actually start to like your therapist they shuffle you around and you end up seeing 6 in two years time. I don't know why that happens but it happened to me so after 2 .5 years I finally threw in the towel and quit going :(

[@derben6661]

Im kinda angry at my therapist for categorizing me as a schizoid person, because im quite the opposite of what is described here, I'm just bad at expressing that. Good Video

[@everythingwillbe6904]

Find a new therapist

[@goldengirl8355]

Hope you’re better now. 💕

[@corentinb4755]

The DSM lacks lots of data concerning Schizoïd personnality, the Psychanalytic approach is way more comprehensive: Schizoïd persons tend to avoid contact as a defense mecanism, as they fear closeness. They are easily overstimulated by their own sensitivity, this is why they escape reality by fleeing into internal fantasy preoccupations, or tend to intellectualize things. They do not lack of sensitivity and do need relationship, but they are often stuck between their own fear of engulfment by others and their deep need of affection. Their eccentricity comes from this same pattern: they chose avoid rules and expectations because rejection is better than engulfment. If you want a good definition I suggest you look into the work of Nancy McWilliams!

[@Hodoss]

The diagnosis can be a shock and hard to swallow. If you mean "I have lots of emotions but I’m bad at expressing them", that’s pretty schizoid. If you suffer from isolation on some level, but are exceptionally resilient to it anyway, again that’s a schizoid sign.

[@relei]

I feel like this video explains the symptoms in a very exaggerated manner, it's good to have a general idea of the disorder but don't trust it too much, the Wikipedia article about the disorder is explained a lot better and you can check the sources.

[@1x93cm]

I thought it was weird why I am 35 and have had no friends or relationships but then I realized. I don't care enough to and it was only weird cuz other people do. As long as I'm by myself I'm A- Ok.

[@sour3000]

It's actually a gift.... You can be satisfied with the bare minimum

[@lindamcmanus3057]

I am 44 and am totally at ease with just my mother and my dog. I neither desire nor have fun with humans. I have no use for them whatsoever and am overjoyed with any and all alone time. I thought I was alone in this...again, fine. 👍🏻

[@NoticeMeSenpaiii]

I envy this. To be able to find contentment in yourself is a strength in my opinion. My life means nothing to me without the people I love. It's terrifying to imagine what would happen to my will to live if I had to be alone.

[@lindamcmanus3057]

@@NoticeMeSenpaiii most people in a position like mine would envy you, with not only close personal relationships but the DESIRE to have them! I’ve always thought people looked at people like me as having a deficiency of some sort. Thank you for this. 🙂

[@NoticeMeSenpaiii]

@@lindamcmanus3057 you're welcome! I guess the grass really is always greener on the other side. The best life for you might not look the same as the best life for everyone else, and that's perfectly okay. Plus, I'm sure your dog appreciates having you all to themselves 😊

[@tudormiller8898]

I always thought I was either extremely introverted or on the autism spectrum. Now I know I most probably have Schizoid Personality Disorder, and Avoidant Personality Disorder. Great video really informative. Watching from London UK.

[@Chickadeemedicine]

Could ya talk about "masking" in schizoid personalities? I've had many of these traits since childhood and at 24 was diagnosed schizophrenic. But I've also made a habit of hiding it and imitating "socially acceptable" behaviors very well over the years (I'm 27 now and my first therapy session was at 7)

[@alexwest2618]

This is called a "secret schizoid" or "covert schizoid"

[@Chickadeemedicine]

@@alexwest2618 that makes sense. Straight to the point.

[@ebonybrown5640]

Masking is a common trait in Aspergers/autism spectrum disorder. usually in women but sometimes in the males too. before it was named autism it was called childhood schizophrenia. They later became 2 separate diagnoses. There’s a number of studies that believe People with autism spectrum disorder or Aspergers are prone to hallucinations and paranoia and are being misdiagnosed with schizophrenia and schizotypal personality disorders. Do your own research though.

[@Chickadeemedicine]

@@ebonybrown5640 yeah I've seen alot of overlap having a couple Autistic family members. Although I think they pegged my diagnoses right, as mom also had schizoaffective bipolar (not sure which type, but dear lord was it scary when she raged). I don't have all her mood issues, but the schizo tendancies for sure. I also have alot of the negative symptoms like memory issues, speech issues (sometimes), flat/blunt affect without meds.... And bunch more I'm gappin atm cause its early here

[@anthonyharmon3166]

We do not think emotionally and logically 50/50. We are more 30/70 or 10/90. I did the same as you, back in school. However, I did, do, not care about what others think of me. Nothing wrong with it. We just prefer being alone and dislike or find no value in being around others. The issue I have with these, is that they say in all these videos that we do not care for sex or emotion. Which is completely false... we experience it differently.

[@natasshjanorielle4711]

This is the only personality disorder that I've ever connected to as far as thinking i have it. I don't hate people but i vastly prefer being alone and ppl always tell me I'm cold or emotionless/indifferent. I don't think I lack emotions I just think it's too much so I just don't want to be bothered. I never seek out treatment because I'm very content with my life and how I express myself. It's other people that have the problem with it if anything.

[@dooobyscoo4569]

Yeah i can relate heavily.

[@stingylizard]

​@@dooobyscoo4569The exact sentiments of our schizoid mom. Don't bother me. I'm fine,you're the problem. Expect covert neglect and abuse from a schizoid parent. Not fun.

[@Whoisthatns]

And who wants to pay for therapy to show up better for a holes

[@gregofthedump]

For the past year or so, I've been wondering if I have this personality. I've spent many years trying to want friends, but not being interested enough to do the things I would need to in order to find them. Same with romantic relationships. I've never felt compelled to seek out women, although in my early twenties I experimented with socialising at pubs and nightclubs, to no end. At fifty, I'm happy to stay indoors and not meet anybody. I was doing this long before the lock down. Currently working with a psychiatrist.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

I could see how the isolation isn’t a problem for you. Many people with this personality are very content with their solitude.

[@moarroz]

I would say the fact that you are reaching out and trying to get more information on your self analysis could mean that you actually are a little more interested in making connections with others...more so than you think. I also don't like all the effort that goes into hanging with average people. I have found my best friend on the austism spectrum to be the least emotionally draining and find it effortless with him. I have wondered if i am that as well due to my birth etc. So you may just be higher functioning to get a diagnosis. You look good for 50 btw lol. I saw your anxiety video you did with chocolate...cool

[@gregofthedump]

@@moarroz Thank you for your comment. I think you could be right about the autism thing. My mental health team keeps testing me for it. Always comes out as "mild autism". Add that to my other difficulties and my guess is that the final diagnosis will be complex personally disorder, as there appear to be traits from more than one disorder.

[@mrjeffjob]

I recently realized I have this personality disorder. I’ve always thought most people are just noisy and bothersome, not interesting at all. I remember once at about 12 a kid tried to make friends with me. I thought about it and decided not to make the effort because I realized he would want to take up some of my time doing stuff together. I’ve seen this as a pattern in my life, someone makes an attempt and I just blow past it like I didn’t notice the friendly overture. I once did an exercise where I was asked 10 things I like doing so with some struggle I was able to manage listing 10 things. Then I was asked to write which were solitary activities and which were social. ALL TEN of the items were solitary activities! I don’t lack social skills as people like me and think I’m somewhat funny or witty so I think that fact masked the disorder coupled with the fact that I wasn’t disturbed about being alone so never thought much about it. It would be different if I desired connections but wasn’t able to make them. My occupation? Over the road truck driver. Of course I am. Lol

[@billsimms2511]

I can really identify with trying to force socializing and friendships. As a young teen through my 20s I tried to force myself to socialize, hang out with friends and meet girls. I did this because I felt I should be going them. It all felt very strange and forced and I got very little if any enjoyment from it. It was especially weird regarding women. Girls were pretty interested in me but beyond initial conversation I just couldn’t get interested in them. After I read about schizoid it definitely fit. I wonder if this type of thing can be treated though ? The solitude is fine for me but I don’t like the anhefonia

[@UN33kWabb1T]

Wow!!! This just totally described my personality. I am married but if my mom hadn't pushed me to get married I would have preferred to remain single. I have no desire to have any personal relationships, no interest at all in intimacy in my marriage (or otherwise). I prefer to be alone and my life is an emotional flat line. The only emotion I experience is overwhelming anger when I finally manage to get a little time alone and of course, the phone rings and someone interrupts my solitude. For example, my husband will run out to pick up something and without fail he will end up calling me 3 times before he gets back home less than 2 hours later. I work in a busy office where everyone looks to me when something is needed. I'm the face to the public for anyone coming into the area and hundreds of people are in and out all day and that doesn't include the more than 50 associates that depend on me to answer their questions, find solutions to their problems etc, etc, etc. I'm about 5 yrs away from full retirement age and have been in this job for 3 years. I don't think I'm gonna make it!!!!!

[@Soraya1995]

I’ve always felt weird and strange. I’m always alone and enjoy it. Often feel fake when socialising. Find it difficult to find something I really enjoy and to sharing emotions with anyone even though I have loving people around me. Sometimes I feel lonely but then I like being alone. Actually I often feel very sad about things. I’m sure not maybe it’s just this pandemic! Thank you

[@thinginground5179]

Yep everyone else is nuts.

[@TheVideoLounge]

Ray, you are pretty and so must have people hitting on you, so what do you do about sex, do you just avoid it completely ?

[@1996599]

I was diagnosed with schizoid disorder and I absolutely can relate to your comment!

[@kathrinjohnson2582]

Cluster A disorders are very interesting. I don't hear much about them. Thank you.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You’re welcome. Yes they’re not as popular as the cluster B

[@bl1tz533]

The Virgin Cluster C vs the Chad Cluster B vs the THAD Cluster A

[@bombuniverse1578]

personality disorders in general aren’t heard about much

[@kathrinjohnson2582]

@@bombuniverse1578 Thats true. Mostly what is talked about is just narcissist and borderline. The rest are seldom mentioned.

[@bombuniverse1578]

Kathrin Johnson it’s probably because they’re likely the be most common personality disorders to occur, but even NPD and BPD only occur in about 1-2% of the population, the other PD’s occur even less

[@Pandalka]

amazing. you can be as non-problematic for others as you can, avoid dramas, avoid conflict, mind your own business, work on developing yourself, enjoy your hobbies, enjoy solitude, appreciate any sort of independence you can achieve, try to interact in whatever way you are able to, but the great, sane, neurotypical world will still find a way to tell you how "disordered" you are and how you need to be fixed.

[@ashleypearson7848]

True but to be fair we all.need to be fixed in some way none of us will ever be perfect..but I don't like society standards it totally sucks its even worse now due to social media and the internet

[@offintonebula]

Thank you. Im trying to figure myself out in my mid 30s. Autism, Avoidant, and Schizoid resonate most with me.

[@RestorativeWaves123]

Same here. I was sure I was somewhere on the autism spectrum for the past few years, until recently learning about schizoid. That one seems to fit me the most. Avoidant applies, but I think mostly schizoid traits do, for me.

[@SpiKSpaN-ei6zq]

Pretty much me 😮

[@venmis137]

I have aspergers (or high functioning ASD) and kinda relate to some of the symptoms of Schizoid PD. But I do occasionally desire intimacy, even if it's not as high of a priority as it might be for others. I enjoy interacting with people, so long as our interactions are within a certain framework and not all encompassing. I suppose an analogy would be: I don't want to live on the same continent as others, but I also don't want to live on an isolated island in the ocean. I would like to live in an archipelago, where I can do my own thing on my own island, but with plenty of interaction with other islands (or even continents). I dunno, I'm not very articulate as you can see.

[@Sentientmatter8]

Nah your animal crossing analogy was effective. XD

[@coco_rthritis6462]

Maybe you lean more schizotypal? More into socializing than schizoid but still less than a neurotypical person

[@HassanPoyo]

@@Sentientmatter8 😂😂😂

[@mitchboy999]

I know you posted this comment a while ago however, I wanted to say I appreciate you taking the time to try to explain your perspective to us. I’m not telling you this just to make you feel better but there was nothing wrong with the way you articulated your comment. I understood exactly what you have said and it made perfect sense to me. Thanks and I hope you continue to open up and socialise with those that respect your boundaries!

[@scotnick59]

I think that the two "bleed" together. I am an Aspie, but some of the Schitotypal seems "familiar" too

[@starbright6579]

I can't say I have schizoid personality disorder because I never been to a doctor, but what I can say is the signs are very similar to my personality. When I was about 8 years old I notice I didn't want people to get to close to me if a person would try to be my friend I would push them away with my attitude it was I had to like you for me to be your friend or like your company if I didn't like you I would never give you a chance or I will open up slowly to people or not at all. I do seem like a cold person. My sister she had lots of friends and all her friends didn't like me because I was a person that stayed to myself and always hated company, that's why my sister friends hate me til this day they hated me when we were all kids and now that we're grown they still hate me why? Because I never wanted to be there friend.but my sister did she loved her friends and their company and now today she's telling me that she wants to be like me and not have any friends because all her friends have changed since there school days. And a lot of people will say Schzoid personality disorder people need help, no we don't need help we just prefer to not be stressed out by people, people are fake and nasty. My sister had lots of friends one day she told me. "The reason why my friends don't like you is because the way you act, you don't talk to people." And now she's just like me. Anytime I'm at her house she will be on the phone with her friend mother and her friend mom out of nowhere would just start talking to my sister about how nasty I am when she didn't even see me since 1996when I was 10 years old and today I'm 36 and her friend mom still talking bad about me. It's a shame how my sister friend mom still talking about me since 1996 all because I stayed to myself and never talked to them.

[@unknowntosociety01]

People fear and criticize what they dont understand. Since most people need and want to be around others to feel like its been a life well lived, when they perceive someone such as myself or you who dont have those same needs, they reject us and project their hate on us even though they dont really know us like that. Its just human nature I think so dont worry about it too much.

[@SimicChameleon]

Don't feel bad of yourself. School is an artificial environment and once it ends. Most people moved on and friendships in there don't last forever.

[@tayzonday]

A majority of these videos I’m like “yep, that’s me!” 😱😱😱

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Yes you can recognize traits or characteristics here and there. And that could be normal. What makes it a disorder is when you have a group of symptoms that persist and cause problems.

[@bigfatpenis]

Chocolate rain!!!!

[@magicslave3066]

@@DrTraceyMarks do you have an email account

[@ulfhenar718]

Welcome to the Schizoid party, I’d invite you in but I prefer my solidarity.

[@Pathfinfer11]

Not to sound like a arrogant ass but not caring about peoples opinion is a good thing. The moment you care what people think is the moment you become a slave to their expectations.

[@5H1N081]

Best short summary of SPD I've seen on KZbin so far. Unfortunately this topic is not talked about much, so people (including myself) struggle a lot in their youth finding a name for their symptoms.

[@snorgonofborkkad]

Holy shit. This hit so hard I'm shook. You are describing my father like you personally know him. I had no idea this was a documented phenomenon. I can't believe he's gone undiagnosed my whole life. All that lost time. We could have been friends.

[@Kr4r4]

My problem is not very clear, first I was diagnosticated as ADHD an then schizoid. I never thought I could be schizoid because I have such a high libido and I like sex so much and I can do it with anybody... but when the psychiatrist asked me "do you really like sex or do you only use other bodies to masturbate?" My world fell apart because it's totally that 😆 Thanks for the video

[@sarabrashear4162]

This video is illuminating to watch. After watching this and many other videos on the topic I am almost 100% convinced I have this. I may look into being professionally diagnosed but since it doesn’t super negatively impact my life I may just be content with myself. Watching this put things that I have felt my entire life into words that I didn’t know how to express. I’m definitely going to show this to some family members so they can perhaps get a better understanding of how I think/feel. Thank you for your informative and lovely video ❤️

[@jasnakrizanic2751]

If one’s personality doesn’t cause distress or anti-social behaviour, why to change?☺️ Hope your family understands even if you’ll never be diagnosed by the psychologist.

[@ginacheselka6086]

I love you soooo much. Your ability to break things down explain in detail makes it easy to understand you. Thank You I love and appreciate you ❤❤❤❤

[@jesterskully563]

I like how you put complex concepts and break them down into common terms. I was diagn with asoerg at age 35. I felt different but I never realized why? Once I got diagnosed, it all made sense. It's true about deeply aanting a relationship but finding it difficult to connect with someone

[@НюськаАрбузька]

Probably, the best video about SPD on KZbin. All information presented very competently and without many words. Also the main stereotypes about this disorder (all schizoids grew up in dysfunctional families, become schizophrenics in the future and blah blah) are considered. Take my schizo hat off to you🎩

[@imsimplementeme3869]

Love the way you present information. Bless you!

[@hanekochan]

Hi Dr Tracey. I really liked how you explained each one of the criteria and the differences. Thank you for that.

[@thinkingjohn2099]

Very accurate description of SDP as I have it, probably the best of a bad bunch of disorders to have in my opinion providing bipolar manic episodes & narcissistic types stay away so the pandemic lockdowns hasn't affected me that much

[@victorferreira3199]

I think your videos are the most useful mental health videos on youtube! you do a great job. i'd love if you had a video on alexithymia and explored effective treatments and psychotherapies to improve recognition of emotion and mood in alexithymic people. thanks!

[@nkwari]

Dr. Tracey just listening to your calm reassuring voice is makes me in a better mood.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Oh Thats great.Take care. 😊

[@janets7291]

The onset of ASD is very different from Schzoid Personality. My son started having problems relating to other people when he was about two years old, maybe even earlier. He was diagnosed with ASD at around seven or eight. Schzoid Personality sounds like it comes on much later.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Very true. The personality disorders become apparent usually early adulthood or late teens

[@MP-uz9xi]

I think also autism isn't a result of trauma whereas Schizoid may well be.

[@Ravenzpeak]

I'm so glad I found your channel. My family member is autistic and I have struggled to understand underlying causes for his behavior for years. Without the tools of good information, relationships suffer. The more we can learn about why something is normal for some but isn't 'normal' for everyone, the more we can find way s to treat each other with respect and inclusiveness. It's a win win situation! tfs

[@justmai2476]

This is one of the questions I most ponder upon. As a very, very solitary and socially disinterested Aspie. Thank you for making this video!!!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

You’re welcome. Thanks for watching JustMai. 😊

[@jiminy_cricket777]

One of the many things that was left out of this rather inaccurate video is that many researchers and clinicians see Asperger's as a risk factor for developing comorbid schizoid PD.. Some people think these aren't differential diagnoses.

[@ExploitMage]

well you'd know a aspergers schizoid or schizotypal aspergers every time because theyre quite out of the norm in a lot of ways their live life, eating food, lifestyle, theyre completely different than normal people.. but the sensory problems will be the biggest underlying prevalent quality that has a schizotypal/schizoid + aspergers dual diagnosis driving a lot of isolation and aloneness seeking into their everyday life. could have misophonia + schizoid, but thats limited to sounds, not overall wide wide ranging threshold of sensory problems.

[@GnosticMindTrain]

I don't have autism but I actually crave senses, not avoid them. I don't think that's a mental disorder though.

[@Kate-tz4vs]

Thank you, Tracey! This is the most clear overview of the schizoid personality disorder I've found so far. Appreciate the elaborateness of the explanations and clarifications!

[@TheRis81]

She can't even say the word properly though

[@MP-uz9xi]

@@TheRis81 yeah that was annoying.

[@crystalholder2213]

This takes me back to my rotation in nursing school when we did psychiatric nursing. This wanna make me pursue working on a psychiatric nursing unit🤔🤔. I attended the Community College of Philadelphia RN program and they taught us just as Dr.Marks is lecturing now and my professor gave a lot of analogies.....I did the best during my exams and kept me very interested. Wow...she is the bomb in teaching😊😊.

[@kendigjl]

The information is 10/10 useful and informative, but honestly I could watch this lady talk about how to file my taxes and still be hypnotized by her personality and demeanor.

[@patyleon9771]

Love your videos! They're so direct and easy-to understand. Thanks, from Mexico City.

[@grand_air_trine_astro]

Or we can look at it as human design projectors - we need to protect our energy. I enjoy many activities but became paranoid due to narcissistic abuse over 6.5 years. I crave connection and do feel emotions deeply. Oh and having lots of Aquarius ♒️ placements too. I’m twice diagnosed with Asperger’s and have sensory issues with strong light and sounds.

[@riverd537]

Thanks for this video Dr. Marks. I have schizoid pd...before I understood schizoid I thought I might be on the autism spectrum...you have a good personality and way of talking. I like your videos.

[@dupeaccount1647]

I think I have this. I hate working/being around other people, especially when it's forced and I check all the boxes, except being immune to criticism and praise. I am certainly less sensitive to it though and mostly just hate it at work because it's more shit I have to deal with. I often play video games all day after work - if I'm not exhausted after work. I prefer solitary activities. I do have a long time domestic partner. She might have this disorder too. Neither of us have any friends besides each other and family. I was pretty blunted affect wise (no crying, no significant reaction) when my uncle and grandfather died. I just wish I could avoid people/work more because I'm around other people. I even had a coworker say she didn't know much about me. I hardly talk to coworkers at all, the only times I generally do is when I'm in a boring large meeting and it's more fun to talk to 1 or 2 people than 500.

[@reinaldogarcia70]

So beautiful, 💖 thanks for educating us all 😊

[@generalrepair8731]

Dr Marks My sisters son is on the autism spectrum. I feel for these people. Great video ❤️ General repair

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks a lot general repair. I hope all is well with you. 😊

[@midnightmarev]

This actually helped a lot! I'm currently being screened by a psychiatrist and we've just about ruled out autism and she's now thinking about schizoid personality disorder for me instead. My old psychologist also thought of maybe autism or some sort of personality disorder, even though I saw her for my anxiety and severe depression. Although, this is the first time I've heard about people being able to be diagnosed with a mixed personality disorder with features from different personalities. I resonate with some of the signs for SPD as well as the avoidant personality disorder and I definitely wouldn't be surprised if we figured out there's more going on up there in my brain that could be signs of another personality disorder. I'm honestly just a mess, and we're trying to straighten me out (feels weird to say "straighten out" as a gay person lol).

[@Scott-ll9rb]

Your “social impairment quality” point is well received. Cheers.

[@ambermc0124]

Thank you doctor for empowering us with all this information!! I sincerely appreciate you!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Lala walala you’re welcome. Stay empowered 😊👍🏽

[@cuteracoons5434]

she is maliciously spreading lies among truths

[@MP-uz9xi]

@@cuteracoons5434 eh?

[@jlodoeshotyoga]

I recently broke up with my boyfriend who I now realize has schizoid PD. He meets all the DSM criteria. In the beginning of our relationship he was more affectionate and more excited about me but after about 6 months he clearly was not able to keep up that facade. I guess it was too much work. He never got excited about anything. Nothing made him happy. The closest I saw was his cat or hiking. He didn’t take one single picture of me our entire relationship. But took lots of photos of cats, or bears, or birds, or trees. His face never changed much and it was hard to get any emotional feedback from him. I would literally have to say “I need you to say 2 sentences that are something you like about me”. He was rarely affectionate and never in public. He didn’t get social cues, like getting up and greeting your date when you’re introducing her to your friends. He hated saying things like “good morning” or “good night” and I had to “train” him to greet me with a hug at the door as well as to hug goodbye. He would do it, but over time it went from a hug and kiss, to just a brief peck on my lips. It was like he couldn’t wait to stop touching me. However he smothered his cat in affection and loved animals and nature. He was extremely secretive and kept things from me that I needed to know. For example, he scheduled surgery and planned to go through the whole thing and never tell me about it. He would walk way ahead of me and cross the street, never taking my hand or looking back to make sure I wasn’t laying in the road bleeding. He never shared about himself, even with the small group of friends he’d known for years. His responses were “more or less”, “fine”, “good”, etc. Very vague, no elaboration. Many times his communication was like it was from a script or a how- to book. For example when I cried he would try to comfort me but when I looked at him there was nobody home - there was no emotion or sense of self tied to his comfort. Although we were together 18 months it feels like he was basically a stranger. I tell my friends the best way to describe my experience was that it was like trying to love a rock, and hoping the rock will love you back. I finally realized I was dying inside from lack of emotional intimacy and he said he didn’t want a relationship with emotional intimacy or vulnerability. It confirmed what I’d been sensing all along. I told him I would no longer be his placeholder and I left. Not surprisingly he hasn’t reached out. But it doesn’t matter. I’m relieved I left, and now I’m grieving what I lost living in an illusion for 18 months. I didn’t know how lonely I was until I left. Now I’m free.

[@brandonbluegold]

Maybe u were the problem

[@amibrooksbank7388]

Look up schizoid covert narcissist

[@RaffieFaffie]

Did he happen to consume a copious amount of yoghurt too? I believe this is what psychologists are now calling a 'yoghurt male'.

[@leojablonski2309]

Another one outa the ball park ! Doc, you are the best.

[@introspectivecounselingllc1791]

You're the best Dr. Marks. I use your videos all the time to gain perspective. Thank you for the work you do.

[@deathskunk3]

This women knows what shes talking about most just list the DSM symptoms but she has a better understanding which is rare. The vast majority of people working in the mental health sector either have heard about the schizoid only once in a class (of which it got 2 minutes of attention during a powerpoint) or simply look up the DSM symptoms on wikipedia.

[@angellee9307]

You are helping me to figure it out . Not being around folks hurts because you love them

[@Iujjdjcbjrujgsm]

Thank you for explaining, I always had a hard time understanding Schizoid. I thought I was one but I think am more avoidant, and while I always wanted to socialize and develop relationships, I am slowing becoming more detached but this is a result of bad experiences. I want to be alone, but it is more because of results of life than me being naturally like that.

[@Andrew-pm5bg]

I ran across this video, somewhat by chance. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist, I want to say what a wonderful presentation. It was concise, informative and reflected great insight. Thanks for the refresher!

[@GNOMErcds]

When you spoke about the schizoid possibly having an active fantasy, I really can relate to this, but in regards to wanting relationships and the schizoid being indifferent, i.e. "take it or leave it", I can't quite relate to that. I very much do want relationships and intimacy, but I can't connect with others, I just don't know how to relate, which sounds very avoidant, can there be comorbidity with schizoid and avoidant?

[@williamstdog9]

THANK YOU FOR THIS!! Judging from what you’ve said here I now see that I’m not Schizoid but that I have the Aviodent disorder because I spend all my time alone, but it’s not because I hate all ppl but because I’m socially awkward in group settings and can always tell when others are judging me - and NOT because I don’t want friendship or intimacy / sex etc! Sorry if I didn’t articulate that perfectly.. but thank you again Ma’am for your video.. I’m looking forward to watching more. Have a great day wherever you are ☺️

[@lukaslkrv9685]

I was diagnosed with Sp back in july 2012 ... but for me socializing is relatively easy i enjoy when I'm with family members to a certain limit but I enjoy being alone also

[@tommzytree2787]

Then you have not got a schizoid personality.

[@dawnwheatcroft6964]

I love your outfit! Great video too!

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Thanks Dawn! 😊👍🏽

[@moomak8920]

I dont like being alone i just dont feel included when im apart of a group. Or often sacrificed when i am. Like at work im often left woth the most work if not the hardest job and and the work no one wants to do.

[@bnjmnwst]

There's not enough info here for a positive diagnosis, but SPD can be ruled out, in your case, I think.

[@jamaicancoder6278]

same

[@arachnidsLor]

i am so frustrated. my sister was apparently diagnoses with this. ive been going to a therapist for over a year and working on a lot of different problems, my sisters abusive behaviour being one of them. she is nothing like what you are describing, she has screamed and yelled at me, forced me to spend time with her so she can dress me up in ways she would like (im the younger sister) she has had violent rages as a child especially. she says unforgivably horrible things to me sometimes and never apologizes. my therapist says it sounds like a narcissist or someone with bpd... my sister even said she was first diagnosed with bpd and then laughed it off "haaha of course im nothing like that!" and then she recites the wikipedia article for schizoid personality, to my face, while claiming opposites of behaviours i KNOW she exhibits. she has done so much damage to my life and now she has a "quirky" disorder while i am stuck spending all my money at my therapists, to deal with the damage SHE has done to me. i cant forgive her. she is a liar and a manipulator who will exaggerate health issues so everyone will be sick worrying for her. my dad especially cant sleep and gets horrible stress from that behaviour. while no one cares when im sick because i dont make a big deal out of it. she is not schizoid and this video helped reinforce that opinion for me.

[@Olololapsha]

Doctor, Thank you for this great explanation! My boyfriend has a squizoid PD and I've been learning about it for a while to be able to do my best for us. You've helped a lot with this video!

[@rusty315]

Does he barely initiate sex?? I am pretty sure my husband has schizoid too. He pretty much leaves it to me to start sex

[@MP-uz9xi]

how do you cope with it?

[@KimberlyLetsGo]

You’re just the best, Dr. Marks. I wish you would have been my professor.

[@pj6579]

Thank you, that was an interesting video, I've just subscribed & will watch your playlist. By the way I love the design and colours of your top!

[@kyokisaru]

I've seen a lot about using 'high support needs' and 'low support needs' vs 'high/low functioning' to describe people on the ASD spectrum.

[@stoneyvowell1239]

Thank you Dr. Marks interesting very interesting. I'd be interested and knowing what the combination of schizoid and autism looks like in your opinion and how are you would be able to distinguish between the two if both are diagnosable. I really enjoy your Take On Me these kind of topics and I really hope KZbin doesn't damage your channel like they're doing so many others right now. I believe your Channel it is very valuable to the community.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Stoney Vowell thank you. How is KZbin damaging other channels?

[@DrTraceyMarks]

Stoney Vowell I think it be very hard to tease out the schizoid traits in someone with ASD where the ASD was fairly prominent. I think in reality the ASD symptoms would overshadow schizoid features.

[@stoneyvowell1239]

@@DrTraceyMarks the new policies that are being implemented are shutting down a lot of channels. A Good Fortune of the mental health channels that I keep an eye on are being more and more demonetized and or straight out being forced to shut down. Not sure what the reasoning is. but I hear complaints on some of the autistic channels that you can't even say autistic in the videos anymore or they will shut down any revenue generated by ads and such, make them not searchable or other means of discrimination. Some of the activists believe it has something to do about raising cost to advertisers so you two can make more money themselves. Could even be something to do with the PC culture wars. I would just hate to lose your channel because I get a lot of valuable information from you and channels like yours.

[@stoneyvowell1239]

@@DrTraceyMarks that's pretty much what the DSM says as well. If autism seems to explain the difficulties than autism trumps schizoid and or schizophrenia. But when I went to get my autism diagnosis they basically told me schizophrenia trumps autism. I understand a lot of the diagnosis process depends on the diagnosing doctor's opinion, which can lead to other diagnostic confusions, misdiagnosis and or wrong / damaging treatments. that is why I work takes a more careful and in-depth look into the dysfunctions in the individuals life to work out what the root causes could most likely be. but my main issue with that is the mental health and medical establishments seem to lean towards schizophrenia over autism, seemingly to push the psych meds for anything resembling schizo behaviors. I think that is especially true with family and children's services and other government funded services.

[@moarroz]

@@stoneyvowell1239 schizophrenia trumps everything lol. Anyone in psych field knows that. At risk behavior is more so in that

[@3ZX8Ball]

Thank you for talking about schizoid personality disorder, dr. Marks! I had asked for it in an older video of yours. :)

[@NoticeMeSenpaiii]

It's so strange to me that we call these things disorders. If someone is different from what society considers to be normal but they're happy or content with the way they are, why do we feel the need to "fix" them or encourage them to seek help? If someone is upset that their family member doesn't want a close relationship with them, maybe they should seek therapy to learn to cope and heal instead of trying to change their loved one. It doesn't seem fair to force therapy and change on a person who doesn't want/need it just because you (figurative you, not pointing fingers) are unhappy with the way they are. I know it's hard - my family and friends are literally my entire world and it would kill me to lose them - but I think we need to learn to accept others as they are and allow them to live their own authentic life. That being said, these videos are super interesting. I think they'll help me understand and sympathize with people better, so I really appreciate them.

[@marieball1772]

Just To reflect on another side of the coin . if you are okay with who you are and you don't want a close relationship that is fine but I'm married to a man who could care less about my feelings about having a normal marriage or having a close relationship. Why would you marry someone knowing that you feel that way and ruin their life? My children have and still do suffer because of it .

[@FrozenFireMeltedICe]

I don't think trying to "fix" someone who's happy with themselves and their life is necessary. But on the other hand, I got this diagnosis recently, and I'm miserable with my life, so some people may absolutely want/need help.

[@milkusimu4775]

I don't have a diagnosis of Schizoid Personality Disorder but mostly because I've never bothered to go get one, literally because I don't care. I have every single trait, and not wanting to be around people or form relationships with anyone doesn't bother me one bit. I prefer to be alone and I intend to keep it that way. So I have always thought the same as you - I don't feel like I have a "disorder" as such, I just feel like a person who doesn't have any need whatsoever to form relationships, and as I'm not hurting anyone and it's not making me unhappy (quite the opposite in fact) then why should I try to change that ? I can see the point of others if it is something that bothers them, but for me I agree with everything you have said.

[@justadult3493]

we only call it a disorder if it causes distress in person and hinders their productivity or relationships. if person is content with everything, isnt distressed and has ‘odd’ traits, then it’s not a disorder

[@chapachuu]

Yeah, as an introvert whose also aroace for a while I thought I had schizoid personality disorder. Luckily, I educated myself enough to know that’s not the case.

[@orenfranz4580]

I have symptoms that looks like Schizoid Personality Disorder, even though it is symptoms of Autism

[@Zenka_569]

Those feautres in Schizoid Personality sounds very similar to behaviour of my former partner. Except it was very acute, happened literally within one day when our daughter was only 2 months old. He changed almost 180 degrees. It last with ups and downs for next 2 years until our relationship finally felt apart. He chose to leave us and as far as I know, lived mostly unemployed in various places in the Country. Sadly he is not interested whatsoever in his daughter either. I don't know if this could play any role, but he is an ex UK soldier, although he denied that anything bad happened during those years of his service. I wish all those who are affected by any mental health problem lots of strength and positive vibes as it's a difficult war with many small battles.

[@jas_bataille]

My God... I'm so sorry darling :( This is terrible. I would say that there is a clear connection between being a veteran and PTSD symptoms. Unfortunately, people with PTSD might believe that they're monsters and will ruin the lives of their loves ones. If he left that's probably because he thought he would be a terrible father for your daughter. I don't believe that he's not interested; a lot of the time, extreme avoidance can be a sign of extreme interest as well, as counter-intuitive as it might sound. I wish that one day you can reconnect. He is denying and avoiding, but I don't believe that he is not interested. My ex wants to have contact with me and appreciate our friendship - but avoid me right after we enjoyed some time together (nothing sexual or romantic). She left me saying that she made me suffer too much, and she'll claim that I'm not a friend and then come back to tell me that she "feel the same" - I still have some feelings for her and denying it would leave to no good. She went through a lot of abuse and traumas, her mom died when she was a kid and her very conservative family wanted to take her back from her father who's a really good person, but a lonely artist so she was basically cut from family after losing her mom. I think she is too afraid to develop a relationship and suddenly disappear, so she prefer to pretend like she isn't interested, but that's simply not true. I have my issues as well which are actually opposite, I fall too much too quickly. I wish we can work this out one day. I still feel the wound of her loss and the sadness from not being able to reach to her and vice-versa everyday still, but I learned not to be co-dependent anymore. I still wish one day we'd come back together. I feel you... Stay strong!

[@Zenka_569]

@@jas_bataille thank you very much for sharing your thoughts and your story. I think you made here great conclusions. It's something that was running in my mind, but was hard to processed in right order as my mind is spinning due to the heavy load of single parenting. It's difficult to not to hold into a sorrow, grief and anger after losing someone this way, but for me moving on with my life helped to find myself with all the strength and self confidence I had before. We can't help someone who doesn't want us to help. Even though we see their suffering and have a plan how to take them to a better place in life, there is not much we can do. I know that life can surprise us with a great gifts as well, so wish you all the best 🍀

[@technicallyedible7272]

Thank you, Dr. Marks!

[@jmh1189]

I have a feeling that adults such as myself are sometimes alternatively diagnosed with spd rather than asd due to the fact that some mental health professionals will not disgnose an adult with autism due to the lack of established evaluation standards for adults. I got diagnosed in the navy at walter reed and i recall my psychiatrist mentioning that i may be on the spectrum. However, i got an spd diagnosis. I just met yesterday another veteran who had a similar experience a couple decades before me when he was in the army. This led me to theororize that spd for some practicioners is a close(enough) alternative to an autism disgnosis.

[@Bashobozo]

I fit all the criteria. My parents considered me to be cold, selfish, and lacking empathy. I don't really feel much or express emotion that much.

[@thehummingbird8790]

I heard Schizoid personality disorder is a reaction to childhood trauma. The schizoid manifests later in life, it is a developmental process. I have been diagnosed with schizoid personality disorder by my psychiatrist and later with autism level one. Is schizoid a response to a neglectful parent or being treated like your privacy or boundaries meant nothing and was worthless? Also, how often is it people can be diagnosed with both schizoid and autism? Bear in mind I was diagnosed with both.

[@Pootycat8359]

4:45 Schizoid people ALSO don't infringe on the rights of others. We're hermits. Sociopaths, psychopaths, narcissists, & some other types, cause problems, and may draw the attention of the Law. We just live in our fantasy worlds, and don't bother anyone. "Go away! Just leave me alone!" 🤗

[@MindAsdf]

Thanks for making this video, there's so little content on SPD

[@Beefyst]

yes very little

[@nates3497]

i’m schizoid and this is a great intro to it for people who are unaware. i’ll use this video when trying to explain to others.

[@darlenehernandez2867]

thank u for this clarity 💚

[@shadrach6299]

Every now and then I extend myself and try to be “normal”. I always regret it and go back to being alone.

[@petejames1326]

Dr tracey you seem like a very smart and wise Dr, i have schizoid personality disorder,im a 40yr old guy, never had any friends, never had a GF, dont really want one to be honest, i did when i was young but i was always too shy to ask women out, i still am thats why i dont even try and more, i do everything alone, i have a job which i hate but i guess it gets me out of the house, i hate my parents and cousins i dont want anything to do with them as they treat me like a kid even though im 40, i never smile or laugh, when people talk to me i just say yes or no usually i HATE small talk i find it too hard to deal with, if i could retire and never leave my house it would be like winning the lottery, dealing with people is just too hard, i love being alone with me and the internet thats all i need, i dont even play video games etc... if i could stay home all day and watch utube videos i would be happy with that, im PROUD to have scitzoid personality disorder, its made me who i am, i dont love myself but i dont hate myself either

[@JamesR-f9l]

The main characteristic about this disorder is a lack of desire to form and maintain relationships. From my experience, it comes from a lack of permanence in relationships. For example, after moving out I no longer feel a connection with first degree relatives which causes one to communicate less and less to them. And this lack of permanence applies to all relationships not just first degree relatives so one doesn't form new relationships and doesn't maintain old ones. This lack of permanence along with anhedonia and lack of emotional expression severely limits one's social life and further isolation further reinforces this so there is a progression. It is not just not having friends though but having difficulty naming one's hobbies and how one feels due to blunted effect. For example I don't have a favorite book, movie, song, or tv show like many people do. I am okay with all the window shut, blinds closed, and I hardly go outside out of my own volition. My interests can be found mainly in the nonfiction section. I am without friends yet okay.

[@ahmettunc788]

Were you diagnosed

[@benjamincjholmes]

DR Marks, Do you think that most people lie somewhere on any mental disorder spectrum? I ask genuinely inquisitively and from a personal point of view.

[@SasfootBigsquatch]

Is it possible for someone to be avoidant when they were in their teens and gradually turn into schizoid with age? Or at least have both with changing symptoms over time?

[@wibolium9639]

Being an Avoidant can be a symptom or prelude to developing Schizoid. I used to have something like Avoidant but now as an adult, I can say I’m full Schizoid.

[@ShaddyRaddyWorldMusic]

@@wibolium9639 Same. I had avoidant traits as a child. When I got in my mid 20s, schizoid came out of nowhere.

[@morbidgirl6808]

In many cases, it does happen.

[@horncow4160]

That's exactly what happened for me.

[@kittagp]

Oh, never heard of that. so, I fit more into avoidant. Thanks.

[@Poppi_Weasel]

being with people is overrated. who said this was "normal"? most ppl serve nothing but drama

[@priyankamada1996]

Please make a video on not giving up the task In middle. To continue with same energy hope till the end and staying positive hopeful please Dr.tracey

[@theNoctifloralParacosm]

i was diagnosed w ASD years ago but it didn't seem to fully fit, now we're going the right way: my psych said either schizophrenia, or a psychotic disorder along with mixed personality disorder, and the combination for me she said resembles BPD, schizoid personality disorder and schizotypal personality disorder, and that fits best. especially schizoid makes sense: i've just never felt that desire to be close to anyone. its frustrating in the way of, its not socially desirable and people tend to romanticize me

[@agent008chico]

Have you heard the term anhedonia? Can you explain what it is and how a person may develop this condition?

[@DrTraceyMarks]

agent008chico yes it’s the inability to find pleasure in most things. You can hear more about it in this video I did on psychotic depression. What is Psychotic Depression? kzbin.info/www/bejne/aGWqn2tqotaLZ68

[@agent008chico]

@@DrTraceyMarks Thank you Dr. Marks! I'm learning a lot from your videos.

[@Ohhhwehere]

Im a woman that got diagnosed with ASD in my early 30s, a teen I got misdiagnosed with schizoid personality disorder and it really messed me up😮

[@misspinkpunkykat]

Back when Asperger's was still being used, and still new, some people referred to it as "childhood onset schizoid".

[@md-ie3kw]

I think I have schizoid because nothing has ever resonated more than the descriptions of it. The more I learn about it the more I get convinced that I might have it. But there’s no way I’m going to get treatment, because even talking about mental health is still a taboo here where I live. So I’m not even sure that finding a good therapist is even possible. Maybe I need to consider online therapy or something but until then there’s nothing else left to do but trying to figure it all out myself. That’s what I’ve been doing for a while anyways, before I started thinking that there actually might be something wrong with me and there might be a diagnosis for it, I just thought that I’m a loner and weird. But getting older and having the need to work and pursue my desired career, which requires socializing and all this stuff, has been a struggle. And just “learning” how to fit in isn’t an option anymore because it leaves me so empty on the inside and like I’m not myself. I’m fine with being alone but there are things I wanna do and achieve, which requires socializing and being around people. And just seeing people my age interacting and having fun with each other, as mentioned in the video it makes me feel like there’s something wrong me for not even wanting all of that. I wouldn’t worry about any of that if I didn’t have to worry about career and my relatives being genuinely worried about me. (Sorry, English isn’t my first language, so there might be a lot of mistakes)

[@emmaangelcarson6597]

Welp I found out why I'm a lost cause lol. Imagine living with Schizoid, ADD, Asbuger ( can't spell that) and Depression. Tadaaah you have me. Homeless, alone and Society can forget me. I have never had such words describe my life other than these. I don't want help, I embrace the way God made me. I was not made to do vary well in society. I like being by myself because no one can hurt me as long as I am non existent. I was told I was a Genius but then why am I pitching a tent on a street corner. I guess i was wrong to avoid learning about why I am the way I am. However when you no longer have the motivation for sucess, there really is no point in H E L P. Because it doesn't exist, no one really cares about you other than taking your money, and shoving pills down your throat so you can be well and become a slave to society once again. Yes if I did get a job, I hated someone standing over me, like dude back the hell off cause it makes me screw up the work. I was always aware people are over critical and conniving, jealous because I was good at my job. No one likes being outshined. So I stopped working. I don't live off welfare or take food stamps. I do random handyman jobs to eat. My life is almost over anyway I lost my mom my fiancee and my adopted, kid so here on out I'm just glad to be in God's presence with the sun on my face. Watching people go nuts working to pay their massive bills and dept. I owe nothing to no one and no one owes me. The truth is I am smart enough to realize my life dose not matter. I'll be dead soon from something and on a few years I won't even be a thought in someone's mind. My entire life means absolutely nothing like dust collecting on a shelf. Other than how much God loves me now that's something that raises my eyebrow. I feel so tired having to rebuild my life over and over. For me I reached inner peace, knowing why I been so the way I am. I was never meant to love cause love brings loss and pain. I lost everything I've loved. So becoming cold to a cold world seams like fighting fire with fire. I was not born this way I turned out this way cause life sucks. Society makes no sense at all. God bless you all.🤗 Your friendly Schizoid Hermit.

[@davidkamau7446]

Hi dr marks, I really don’t know where I belong. I get so paranoid and though I want to socialize I can’t control my content not even in social media. This is affecting my social ability because I say too much than what should be said and other people don’t take that openness in a good way. I am not on meds or any treatment regime but I tend to fit a lot more with bipolar 2 disorder though my hypomania happens like 3 times in a year mainly winter, spring and a little during summer. Your guidance on this issue will be highly appreciated.

[@DrTraceyMarks]

To get a diagnosis, you really should talk to a professional who can ask follow-up questions.

[@ValiantMichael]

You literally described both of my wife's brothers literally here. Everything mentioned.

[@SavageThrifter]

Now throw in the variable of the patient being a woman... We are so good at mimicking and masking that I'm very confident I have aspergers but one of the biggest areas of difficulty in my life is avoidance and my PCP (who I doubt has much training in the area) passively diagnosed me with Avoidant Personality Disorder after one short appointment so I'm still not quite sure on that one. I certainly identify with many schizoid PD traits but neither AVPD or Schizoid PD fits entirely. Aspergers is the one that fits soo much based on the limited information I've been able to find in regards to symptoms of adult women or females at any age in general. Maybe because my family has always shamed and degraded me for being so different so maybe now the severe avoidance has manifested because to face the things that would surely cause me stress and prove my inadequacy...would trigger the shame that my family engrained in me when I don't meet their expectations of being "normal". So I truly can't get a read on which is the most fitting diagnosis and all these online aspergers tests seem to be tailored to male traits of autism...so Ugh

[@greatsif9566]

I don't like people so I avoid them and spend all of my time alone and I prefer it this way but to me it's just a logical conclusion after years of observing human behaviour. The more I sought out human relationships in the past the more I started to dislike other people.

[@jayx4996]

I was curious about this after watching the love on the spectrum show. I don't like to be around people much. It is largely because of how indirect and irrational people are. It is exhausting to play along. I found these people highlighted with autism as intriguing. They are straightforward and often unfiltered. I thought it was odd that they seemed like compelling friends because they seem easier to interact with. Schizoid personality isn't studied much because of lack of diagnostic cases. The issue with people is more than we are highly logical and rational. That clashes with 80% of the general population. We can get paranoid or have other symptoms, but but this is from our intense detachment or rational mind. We analyze everything constantly.

[@ShaddyRaddyWorldMusic]

Very relatable especially when you said our mind is very “rational and objective”. By not speaking the common language of emotion it makes us seem like we’re outsiders looking in.

[@jayu7141]

This really speaks to the problems with the diagnostic manual, as the disorders were proposed and researched by very different groups of people independently. ASD is such a broad spectrum such that it is hard to make categorical comparisons between ASD and another disorder with similar symptoms.

[@MarkTurner-ff8cz]

This is a really good coverage

[@HushtheMag]

Ever since childhood I've always preferred to be alone, The last time I had a friend was these kids who lived next door to me when i was 11, only really because we all liked Pokemon and playstation, when they were not available to play I used to hide in this huge hedge in my front garden and watch people, Never made any friends growing up in all the middle schools and high schools I went to because I frankly couldn't be bothered, same with finding girlfriends, (I'm into girls but not in the way that i want to start close relationships or anything) I'm now 31 and things are the same. I have no interest at all in forming relationships with anyone, I have a job where I work retail, I talk to customers and colleagues and have a laugh with them but I feel I'm putting on a show. I had a talk with my mother about myself and she suggested I talk to someone, I think I might have this Disorder.

[@psychosanity8164]

My psychologist thinks I am on the spectrum, but I think I am more schizoid due to not reacting to most things. She thinks I am autistic due to having some strong emotions and I react sometimes to thinks. Autism people always react in some way. Whether internal or externally. My emotions are usually sealed shut in a chest, but some leak out like anger and protectiveness. I don't really feel a strong feeling of protectiveness though. I just act.

[@Shane2020xxx]

I would say schizoids can and do have emotions- perhaps even quite strong and sensitive ones, but in general they are just extremely good at locking up their emotions in "chests" or "behind forcefields". If a non-nuanced psychologist didn't understand the hidden nature, I suppose they could say "A HA! You had affect and expressed an emotion! Therefore you could never be schizoid and it would have to be autism." I know better. I think you definitely could be schizoid and still have some secret emotions inside that come out once in a while. I would even imagine schizoids believe a mantra along the lines of "Not everyone appreciates how hurtful emotions can be or is willing to control them. Well, I can and I do. Unlike other reckless people, for my safety and the safety of others I will shield off my emotions as best I can." If some spills out sometimes, it could still be schizoid. People with schizoid personalities are just trying and succeeding at walling them off far better than the average.