Personality disorders are a group of mental health conditions that involve rigid and maladaptive personality traits. They often cause significant distress and impact relationships, work and everyday life. These conditions can be difficult to treat. But with help and support, many people with personality disorders learn to manage their symptoms and create satisfying relationships.
The personality traits that make you unique are influenced by genetics and your experiences. But your personality also plays an important role in how you think, feel and behave. When your personality traits cause distress, affect how you relate to other people and influence your self-concept, you may have a personality disorder.
There are ten types of personality disorders, grouped into three clusters. To get a diagnosis you need to meet the criteria for at least two of these personality disorders. If you meet the criteria for more than one type this is called mixed personality disorder or personality disorder not otherwise specified. Cluster B includes antisocial, borderline and histrionic personality disorders. People with these disorders have dramatic or erratic emotions and may engage in theatrical, promiscuous and/or law-breaking behaviors. They lack empathy for other people and have a disregard for rules and social norms.
A mental health care provider — such as a psychologist or psychiatrist — can diagnose personality disorders. They will ask about your symptoms, your family medical history and any past mental health issues you’ve had. They will also do a physical exam and possibly order blood tests to rule out medical problems.
The main treatment for personality disorders is talk therapy, or psychotherapy. This is when you meet with a psychologist or psychiatrist to talk about your thoughts and feelings. They can teach you to recognize your unhealthy personality traits and how they interfere with your relationships, work and day-to-day life. They can also recommend medicines to help relieve your symptoms.
It can take time to build trust with a healthcare professional when you have a personality disorder, but it’s important to try. When you are ready to seek help, start by finding a therapist you can trust. It’s best to do this before your symptoms become severe.
Psychotherapy is the most effective long-term treatment for personality disorders. Some people with personality disorders require specific types of psychotherapy, such as dialectical behavior therapy for borderline personality disorder and cognitive behavioral therapy for histrionic personality disorder. Other people benefit from general psychotherapy, such as talking therapy or mindfulness. Medicines are usually used in combination with psychotherapy to improve the effectiveness of treatment. They might include antidepressants or antipsychotics. The goal is to help you manage your symptoms, develop satisfying relationships and change your negative behaviours. With help, you can live a happy and fulfilling life. Stay up to date on the latest research advancements, health tips and current health topics from the experts at Stanford Health. Sign up for our newsletter here.
