This might be a dumb question, but im having trouble finding any sort of consensus on this matter. I dont mean to offend anyone, so hopefully it doesnt come off wrong.
I experience all the traits of szpd, but i am not diagnosed with it. I am diagnosed with schizophrenia. I dont think my schizophrenia is a misdiagnosis — it fits me really well. However, i also relate heavily to szpd and experience all its traits, but it is my understanding that you cant be diagnosed with szpd if your symptoms are happening during the course of schizophrenia, and.. my schizophrenia never stops being in course ig? As far as i know, schizophrenia can cause all the symptoms of szpd, too, because of schizophrenia having negative symptoms (in terms of szpd symptoms it would be asociality, anhedonia, and avolition, iirc?)
So my question is, would i be allowed to use the special person terms for szpd, such as 'contact person'? I would not claim to be diagnosed with szpd, and i wouldnt use any of the other terms, just those.
Thank you in advance.
I'll go into this stating that I am of the personal belief that anyone is "allowed" to use any terms they believe fits their situation. While, yes, the SP terms are labelled as 'exclusive' to those with those disorders, I prefer to consider them terms made with those disorders in mind rather than being ACTUALLY exclusive. Use whatever labels describe your situation, and if you feel the need to elaborate further then that's your choice, but no one deserves an explanation. If a contact person is what resonates the most with how you feel about your SP then that's your contact person, no questions asked!
There are of course plenty of people who will argue you aren't allowed to. Honestly, I'd just say ignore them. It's your special person, whatever term works for you in relation to them is for YOU, not for anyone else, so don't let other people dictate that, ya know?
You're correct in saying SZPD and Schizophrenia have such an overlap that you wouldn't be considered for a diagnosis, but it's also worth mentioning that Personality Disorders are incredibly common (I believe 10% of Americans alone have PDs) to the point most therapists won't consider a diagnosis unless it's actively pursued in the first place.
Additionally, I'd like to direct you towards these terms, as I've found these to be helpful for those in similar situations to yourself: Penumbra SzPD by @peculiareyez / Midnight SzPD by @idwl / Gas Giant SzPD by @loverstemptations
These terms all have the same meaning at the core, which is "suspecting, having traits of, or otherwise not feeling comfortable labelling themselves as having SZPD for one reason or another but still feels it important to note that they relate to these experiences in some way." Just giving all three posts I know of! You obviously don't have to use these terms but I thought it'd be helpful to share!
TL;DR Yes, I personally think you're allowed to use the terms. People definitely will disagree with me but you're asking me and my answer is use whatever terms describe you.
