Personality Disorder

A personality disorder refers to a long-term pattern of thinking, behaviour and emotion that is dysfunctional, extreme and inflexible. It causes distress and makes it difficult to function in everyday life. People with personality disorders often find it hard to change their behaviour or adapt to different situations. They may have trouble sustaining work or forming/maintaining positive relationships with others.

There are many different types of personality disorder. Some people with a personality disorder may appear withdrawn, some dramatic and emotional, and others may appear odd or eccentric. The one thing they have in common is that their symptoms are severe enough to affect many different areas of their life.

People often develop the early signs of a personality disorder in adolescence. People with a personality disorder also have high rates of coexisting mental health conditions such as depression, high risk of suicide ideations and substance abuse. Personality disorders are genuine mental health disorders that cause distress.

The symptoms depend on the type of personality disorder. However, many of the symptoms of different personality disorders overlap.

Common signs of a personality disorder include:

• Strange or erratic behaviour
• Suspicion and distrust
• Taking risks
• Extreme mood swings (angry outbursts)
• Difficulty with relationships
• Problems at school or work
• Need for instant gratification

Many people have some of these traits, but they do not necessarily have a diagnosis of personality disorder.

Personality disorders tend to start in childhood, and the thoughts and behaviours become more ingrained into adulthood.

People with personality disorders may be unaware that they have a problem or may find it hard to seek help. Family or friends may be severely impacted by caring for someone with a personality disorder and they may be the ones to seek assistance.

At Think Psychological Services our psychologist/counsellors will ask questions about the current symptoms and any recent events, as well as past mental health issues, family background, relationships, medical history and any drug or alcohol problems.

The diagnosis of a personality disorder may take some time to establish since a health professional will need time to get to know the person.

It can be difficult for someone with a personality disorder to learn to trust a therapist. However, establishing a positive relationship with your therapist is an important step towards recovery. The therapy may vary, based on the type of personality disorder and any other conditions that might be present.

With therapy and support, many people with personality disorders are able to learn to manage their symptoms, develop positive and healthy relationships, and create a meaningful and fulfilling life.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is the most effective long-term management option for personality disorders. Psychotherapy is when a psychologist or psychotherapist helps people to understand their thoughts, motivations and feelings. These insights can help people to manage their symptoms, develop satisfying relationships and make positive behaviour changes.

Methods may include different modalities:

• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
• Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
• Psychoeducation
• Schema Therapy
• Narrative Therapy