When you have avoidant personality disorder, a type of mental disorder that impairs the way you interact with others, fear and anxiety are so intense they get in the way of functioning.

Those with avoidant personalities tend to use perfectionism to delay decisions, telling themselves that they'll only be able to make meaningful choices when they're perfect.

People with avoidant personality disorder have a pervasive fear of emotional closeness. It stems from a lack of self-esteem starting in childhood.

The avoidant personality isn't uncommon but gets little clinical attention. Sufferers often endure silently and with comorbid depression, making recognition an important issue.

What Is Avoidant Personality Disorder? Avoidant personality disorder (AVPD) is a mental health condition that can impair daily functioning.

Learning more about the symptoms of avoidant personality disorder and following some of these relationship tips may help.

People with avoidant personality disorder may struggle with emotional closeness because they view themselves negatively and fear criticism.