PERSONALITY DISORDERS TREATMENT
Getting Support for Personality Disorders
Personality Disorders & Mental Health
Your personality is what determines how you interact with the world around you. A personality disorder is characterized by an ingrained pattern of thinking, feeling, and behaving that typically deviates from what is considered socially acceptable. Personality disorders can impact the way someone feels about oneself and others, the way they respond emotionally, the way they relate to others, and/or the way they control their behaviour. If you or a loved one is struggling with a personality disorder, the right type of therapy and treatment plan can make a positive difference.
Types of Personality Disorders
There are many different types of personality disorders — each with a specific set of criteria. You may notice some overlapping symptoms between them. Additional challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or addiction, can further complicate a diagnosis.
Paranoid personality disorder
A pattern of extreme mistrust and suspicion of others, without reason. The individual may regularly feel paranoid that others are trying to harm, threaten or attack them.
Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder
A pattern of obsession with orderliness, perfection, and control, which interferes with the ability to complete tasks. Note that this is different from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
Schizoid personality disorder
A pattern of being detached from, and disinterested in, social relationships. The individual will rather be solitary and is typically secretive, emotionally cold, and apathetic towards others.
Schizotypal personality disorder
It is similar to Schizoid personality disorder, in that the individual is uncomfortable being in relationships. However, they also exhibit paranoid ideation and suspiciousness of others. They may have eccentric beliefs, perceptions, and mannerisms.
Schizotypal personality disorder
It is similar to Schizoid personality disorder, in that the individual is uncomfortable being in relationships. However, they also exhibit paranoid ideation and suspiciousness of others. They may have eccentric beliefs, perceptions, and mannerisms.
Dependent personality disorder
A pattern of behaviour that stems from feeling helpless, submissive, or incapable of self-care. They may have trouble making decisions without reassurance or avoid being alone because they fear that they can’t take care of themselves.
Antisocial personality disorder
A persistent pattern of disregarding the rights of others through antisocial, irresponsible, and/or harmful behaviour (ie. lying, deceiving, acting impulsively).
Borderline personality disorder
A pattern of varying moods, intense emotions, and impulsive behaviour. There are different types of BPD, including discouraged (“quiet”) borderline, self-destructive borderline, impulsive borderline, and petulant borderline.
Histrionic personality disorder
A pattern of behaviour with excessive attention-seeking, often beginning in childhood. The individual may shift emotions quickly, dress provocatively, act seductively, or flirtatious to receive attention.
Narcissistic personality disorder
A pattern of thinking and behaving in which individuals have an inflated sense of self-worth, a sense of entitlement, a need for excessive admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. It can cause problems with relationships, school, and work.
Avoidant personality disorder
A pattern of behaviour that includes feelings of inadequacy, sensitivity to criticism, and extreme shyness or social inhibition. It typically creates issues in work and personal relationships.
Personality Disorders Treatment
Once diagnosed, treatment may include one or all of the following: individual psychotherapy, group therapy, and/or medications. The most commonly used therapies for personality disorders are cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and family therapy. Contact Bhatia Psychology Group to learn more and find the right support for you or your loved one.
FAQs – Personality Disorders (PD)
What triggers a personality disorder?
Various factors may contribute to a personality disorder, including genetics, a history of abuse, and other environmental factors. You can also have a personality disorder alongside depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues.
When do personality disorders develop?
The majority of personality disorders develop in a person’s teen years. However, they are often diagnosed as an adult once the person has fully matured and developed.
Are personality disorders mental illness?
A personality disorder is an umbrella term for a variety of mental illnesses. This grouping of mental illnesses involves a chronic pattern of thoughts and behaviours that differs from what is usually socially acceptable. People with personality disorders may struggle with relationships, work, stress, and everyday problems.
Can personality disorders be cured?
Personality disorders won’t go away on their own. Yet, with the right treatment, an individual with a personality disorder can learn different ways to think and behave. Most personality disorders aren’t permanent.
Can personality disorders be inherited?
There may be some genetic factors associated with personality disorders. Research on twins, families, and personality disorders indicates that there is a strong genetic association. However, genetics have not yet been determined as a definite cause.
Are personality disorders difficult to diagnose?
Personality disorders may prove difficult to diagnose due to an overlap with other mental health issues and their symptoms. In turn, it may be hard to narrow down the symptoms of a personality disorder when another diagnosis has been made.
What type of therapy is best for personality disorders?
The type of therapy that is best for a specific personality disorder may depend on the type of personality disorder. However, common therapies used for personality disorders include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy, and family therapy.
How can I get help for my personality disorder?
Bhatia Psychology Group is here for you. Our caring and compassionate team offers a variety of therapy types that can help address personality disorders. Contact us to book an appointment today.