Personality Disorders

Your thoughts, behaviors, and feelings make you unique. These aspects create your personality. Many factors can influence your personality, including your genetics, experiences, and environment. Your personality is likely to remain constant across your lifetime. 

People who have thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that impair their functioning may have a personality disorder. A doctor or mental health professional can diagnose a person with a personality disorder and provide treatment if needed. 

Mental health experts categorize personality disorders into ten types. This article will provide an overview of each type of personality disorder. You will learn:

• The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) description of each personality disorder
• What happens in treatment for personality disorder
• Where to find mental health treatment and support in Florida

If you or someone you love has a personality disorder or another mental health condition, you are not alone. Contact the team at Agape Behavioral Healthcare to explore our comprehensive treatment and support programs in Florida. 

What are Personality disorders?

A personality disorder (PD) is a mental health condition that causes harmful thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. People with PD may experience symptoms that impact their functioning.

Here is a brief overview of the ten types of personality disorders. 

Antisocial personality disorder

People with antisocial PD act with disregard for the rights of others. They may engage in dishonest or impulsive behaviors and often disregard social norms.

Avoidant personality disorder

People with avoidant PD may be shy and sensitive to criticism. They may struggle with feelings of social inadequacy or believe they are not good enough. These symptoms may cause them to avoid social interactions.

Borderline personality disorder

People with borderline personality disorder (BPD) may have unstable relationships. They may have a poor self-image and act impulsively. People with BPD may also exhibit inappropriate anger, rapidly changing moods, and an intense fear of abandonment. 

Dependent personality disorder

People with dependent PD may struggle with feelings of helplessness. They may crave constant reassurance or resist caring for themselves. 

Histrionic personality disorder

People with this type of PD may engage in attention-seeking behaviors. They may feel compelled to be the center of attention at all times. People with this PD may exhibit quickly changing and intense emotions.

Narcissistic personality disorder

People with this PD may have an over-inflated sense of self-importance. They may put their needs and wants above anyone else’s. They can lack empathy and take advantage of others.

Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder

People with obsessive-compulsive PD typically have a “black and white” view of right and wrong. They may struggle to relax or focus on relationships. 

Paranoid personality disorder

People with this PD typically feel suspicious about others’ feelings or motivations. Because of this mistrust, they may actively avoid creating relationships with others. 

Schizoid personality disorder

People with schizoid PD prefer isolation and avoid contact with others. They may find it challenging to express emotions or engage with others. 

Schizotypal personality disorder

People with this PD may have odd ideas or behaviors. They may experience intense social anxiety and feel very uncomfortable in close relationships. 

People with personality disorders can benefit from comprehensive treatment and ongoing support. Treatment can help people manage the symptoms of PD and improve functioning. 

Treatment for Personality Disorders

People with personality disorders may benefit from comprehensive mental health treatment. Treatment plans for PD may include psychotherapy (talk therapy), group therapy, medications, and lifestyle changes. 

Here is an overview of treatments that can help people manage PD symptoms and improve their quality of life. 

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is a critical aspect of treating PD. People with PD can work with a licensed mental health practitioner to address their symptoms. During sessions, they can process emotions, learn skills, and correct destructive behavioral patterns. 

Medications

There are currently no medications used to treat or cure personality disorders. However, some people with PD may benefit from using anti-anxiety medications, mood stabilizers, or antidepressants. 

Lifestyle changes

People with PD can use lifestyle changes that may help to reduce symptoms. These include:

• Receiving regular medical and mental health check-ups
• Using healthy coping skills to reduce stress, such as mindfulness, yoga, and breathing techniques
• Avoiding addictive substances, including alcohol
• Getting regular exercise to help regulate mood and boost self-esteem
• Staying socially active
• Writing, drawing, making music, or other creative outlets for stress and emotions

Family support can also help people with PD manage their symptoms. Personality disorder treatment programs may provide education, counseling, and support for people with PD and their family members. 

The symptoms of PD can make everyday life more challenging. However, comprehensive, holistic treatment can help people manage their emotions and live fuller, healthier lives. 

Early treatment can help you manage PD more effectively. Seek treatment and support as soon as you recognize the signs of a personality disorder. 

Find Personality Disorder Treatment in Florida

If you or someone you love lives with a personality disorder, you are not alone. Contact Agape Behavioral Healthcare to explore our comprehensive mental health treatment programs in Florida or to schedule an intake evaluation.