How to prepare to move out if you have avoidant personality disorder (AVPD)?

Sounds like you’ve thought things through well, have some great short and longer term goals and are ready to take your life into your own hands. It will come, but patience, discipline and tenacity will help a lot.

Having mental health issues that I’m constantly trying to overcome, learn about and treat, I can relate. If you’re legally an adult, your parents don’t need to consent to treatment. However, if you use their insurance, as you know, they’d see the claims and know you’re trying to get professional help. It’s sad that you can’t rely on your family for positive support, I’m sorry! The medical journey alone will cost and not cheap, if you’re in the US. I’m paying out-of-pocket for most of my treatment due to insurance reasons. It’s a burden of an expense but often you can set up a payment plan. But, as you also know, you’ll need a source of income, then.

When finding a medical team to help treat your mental health, it’s important to find the right fit. Whether it’s therapy, medications (which will come at a cost as well) or combination of both, it will take time. And, the right fit with providers can make the process go so much smoother. Be open to their recommendations but know ahead of time what your comfortable with and if values come into play, what you’re willing to do. For instance, due to past experiences, I wanted to first try supplements or non-medicinal treatment of my symptoms. However, I’m finding that may not be enough.

As for moving out, once you have a job, then you can begin seeking an apartment. Make sure to tour the property and have a set of questions to ask each landlord. What is included with the rent, what is your responsibility. You’ll also need renters insurance, most require it, I believe. And, some may require a certain credit score to be approved, at least in the US. Make sure to understand the lease and terms. And, think about things such as location, floor of the apartment, parking, etc.

As for transportation, I lived in California where I needed to rely on Uber to get around. When selecting an apartment, I looked for one in an area that was within walking distance to a lot of things. I also relayed on Door Dash or Uber Eats for deliver when necessary. I too, didn’t go out much, didn’t know many and don’t like asking for help. I was left to my own devices. It worked well, but costs to have delivery, so tried to walk whenever I could.

You will get there! It takes time and patience. It can be really fun to venture out on your own, but also scary. The mental health priority seems like your first step, I agree. Once you get your mental health under control more, it will give you a whole new lease on life and open many doors, hopefully.

I have avoidant detachment disorder, among depression, anxiety and ptsd, maybe others. I understand how daunting life can be when you’re not able to “just do” things that others do so effortlessly. And, the self doubt and criticism you give yourself due to not being able to “just do” things, becomes taxing and decreases your chance for every succeeding due to the low self-esteem one builds, unfortunately. At least, that’s how I’ve felt. I’m still working on my mental health, and I’ve had mental health issues from birth. It’s a lifelong journey. But, getting professional help and perspective is important, as clique as it may be.

I wish you the best as you prepare for your next big adventure. And, I hope your continued journey brings peace, excitement, success and happiness! You got this!!

/r/Adulting Thread