Understanding My STPD Symptoms: Should I Be Concerned?
Hello, I’m a 20-year-old diagnosed with Schizotypal Personality Disorder, along with CPTSD and ADHD. I’m currently on Elvanse (50 mg). Earlier this year, I was diagnosed with STPD, but recently I’ve been experiencing some unusual symptoms, and I’m uncertain whether they are typical for my condition or if they warrant concern. I've encountered a situation that I haven't faced before. This week has been particularly strange for me; I feel unrecognizable, as if I've stepped outside of myself. I've been isolating excessively, experiencing profound anhedonia, and I’ve lost interest in activities that typically brought me joy. I'm actively avoiding social contacts with friends and family. At the beginning of this week, I was feeling especially unstable, prone to irritability, and engulfed in despair—there were even moments when I felt suicidal. While those particular feelings have subsided somewhat, I now have an overwhelming sensation of emptiness. Emotionally, I find that I am almost devoid of feelings and struggle to express any that I do have. Despite this, I am grappling with intense paranoia and a tendency to get lost in obsessive thoughts. I do still feel sadness, which has perhaps even deepened, but thankfully, the suicidal ideations have lessened. Unfortunately, today has seen a decline in my mental clarity. My thoughts feel hazy and insubstantial—it's as if my mind is blank. Even so, the paranoia and obsessive thinking persist, making it difficult for me to focus. There was an incident today when my sister tried to explain something to me, and everything she said just sounded nonsensical. It took her repeating herself three times for me to grasp what she was conveying, which understandably frustrated her. I’m left questioning whether this episode is a common occurrence associated with STPD or if it's a sign that I should be genuinely worried. My mental state feels very disconcerting right now.
Answers (1)
6/15/2025, 1:40:45 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned given the complexity of your symptoms and the impact they seem to have on your daily life. Your experience of feeling unrecognizable, isolated, and experiencing intense emotions, alongside symptoms like paranoia and difficulties with clarity, could indicate that you may be going through a particularly challenging episode.
Explanation:
Individuals with Schizotypal Personality Disorder (STPD) can experience a range of symptoms, including social anxiety, discomfort with close relationships, and sometimes transient psychotic symptoms. The feelings of emptiness, anhedonia, and paranoia could potentially be exacerbated by your existing conditions (CPTSD and ADHD) or by stressors in your life. It's important to be aware that some fluctuations in mood and perception can occur, but sustained or overwhelming distress, especially with thoughts of self-harm or crises in clarity, should be taken seriously.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Take note of any changes in your mental state, as well as triggers that may worsen your symptoms. Keeping a journal might help in identifying patterns or specific stressors.
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Reach Out for Support: Although you've been isolating, try to connect with a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional about what you are experiencing. Having supportive conversations can help you feel less alone and clarify your thoughts.
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Engage in Grounding Techniques: When you feel overwhelmed, consider grounding exercises like deep breathing or mindfulness to help stabilize your thoughts and emotions. Simple activities like going for a walk or having a warm bath may also be helpful in managing feelings of emptiness.
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Establish a Routine: Create a simple daily structure, even if it’s just basic tasks. This can help provide a sense of normalcy and accomplishment, which may alleviate feelings of despair.
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Limit Stressors: If possible, try to minimize stress in your environment. This might mean reducing exposure to certain conversations or media that exacerbate your paranoia.
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Consider Professional Help: If your symptoms persist or intensify, particularly your feelings of emptiness or any thoughts of self-harm, it's crucial to seek guidance from a mental health professional. They can help adjust your treatment plan, talk about medication adjustments, or explore therapy options.
It’s completely valid to seek reassurance about your mental health, especially given the symptoms you've described. You’re taking an important step by reaching out and seeking understanding. Please prioritize your safety and be kind to yourself as you navigate through this.
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