anxiety or schizoid?

Some of my friends and family have questioned whether or not I have a social anxiety issue. I don't feel nervous or upset in social situations but I do usually avoid them. I don't feel that I'm afraid of relationships, I just feel that being on my own is preferrable to even what would qualify as a good relationship. I don't think those feelings fit anxiety, I've had anxiety issues in the past and its just not the same because before I had a physical reaction to how loud and crowded places seem to be and now it's just... indifference. After some research I found that schizoid personality disorder seems to really fit my personality and behavior, beyond social situations, to a T. I have only one relationship that I could call emotional attachment and that is to my grandparents. I can cut friends and family members out of my life without any second guessing and when I think about it that seems harsh but I can't see it as being wrong. I can't work up empathy anymore, I told a visiting friend to suck it up when she had a horrible day getting lost going to a conference. The few close friends I have I stay mainly connected with through phone and email, I rarely see them in person and when I do I keep looking at my watch. Anything worth doing is better done alone: museums, movies, traveling, shopping, etc. and being in those public situations doesn't really bother me so that's why I don't think it's anxiety. Am I off base or does the indifference cancel out anxiety? I'm not angry at the world or depressed, I just really am happier on my own.

[be still my beating heart 13]

I would speak with a therapist about your issue.  There are "tell-tale" signs that determine whether or not you have anxiety or some other mental disorder.  Self-diagnosing is bad news, believe me I know.  Get an expert to tell you what you are facing.  Only then you can form the appropriate course of action.  I hope this helps and that you felt well today!  Good luck to you!

Cori

[Vsanfi]

My roommate has amphetamine bipolar schizoid, we are looking for a support group and for psychiatrist with correct meds.  Can anyone help, San Diego area?  Thank you.

[mammo]

Many people enjoy life thoroughly by themselves.  I think it's very healthy when one reaches a point that he can enjoy his own company, and few people ever achieve this.  I would assume if it got too extreme  that you may want a professional's opinion.  But if it isn't broke, don't fix it.  The most important thing is that YOU are happy with your life.

[nursegirl6572]

I think there is a difference between someone being confident and secure enough to be able to spend quality time alone and enjoy it versus someone who avoids social situations and "cuts people out of their lives" for no apparent reason and not lose sleep over it.  Also, it would concern me that you seem to not be able to display important emotions, such as compassion and empathy.

There is really only one way to get to the bottom of this.  Go and be assessed by a psychiatrist, who can provide you with an official diagnosis, eduate you as you what you are dealing with, and offer treatment options.

Please do this for yourself, b/c while you might be "ok" with how you are...it's obvious that it is affecting your life in a negative way to some degree.  Not everyone needs boatloads of friends and needs to go out socializing every night of the week, but SOME level of that is vital to live a fulfilling life....to enjoy life...and to get you though some of the more challenging aspects of life.

Best of luck!