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Personality disorders are complex, psychological conditions that can impact how you think and behave, often leading to impaired relationships with others and distress in your life. Someone with a personality disorder may display behaviors that vary from typical cultural expectations that last over time.
These disorders offer a window into the intricate workings of the mind, highlighting the diverse ways in which individuals perceive and interact with the world around them. According to the DSM-5-TR, there are 10 existing personality disorders that fall into 3 separate clusters (categories).
Cluster A disorders share a common thread of odd or eccentric behaviors, such as social withdrawal, distrust, unusual beliefs, and difficulty forming and maintaining relationships.
Cluster B disorders are known as the dramatic, emotional, or erratic cluster, sometimes exhibiting behaviors of violence or aggression.
Cluster C disorders share a common theme of anxiety, fear, and an underlying desire for stability and security
As some of the least understood mental health disorders, personality disorders continue to undergo a great deal of research. However, prior studies have shown that factors such as genetics, brain changes, cultural factors, and childhood trauma may contribute to the development of a personality disorder. Aside from biological factors, personality disorders often result from adverse childhood experiences, or as a method for coping with a troubling environment.
In order to be diagnosed with a personality disorder you will need to seek expert help from a professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. If you have begun to recognize symptoms in yourself or someone you love, keep track of them as they are observed or experienced . When meeting with a professional, openly share any concerns and noticed behaviors that align with the symptoms of a personality disorder. Some questions you may want to ask your provider are:
Your medical professional will likely conduct a psychological assessment, typically consisting of an informal conversation, lab work, and standardized testing . The DSM-5, used as a tool to help with diagnoses, requires that patterns of behaviors be chronic, long-lasting, and must affect your ability to function socially, at work, in school and in relationships.
Since your personality can evolve throughout your teenage years, a personality disorder diagnosis is unlikely until patients are over the age of 18 . Your symptoms must also affect at least 2 of these 4 areas: thoughts, emotions, interpersonal functioning, and impulse control. Additionally, your behaviors and patterns cannot be attributed to any co-occurring mental health conditions, substance use disorders, or medical conditions.
Compared to many other mental health disorders, personality disorders have historically been some of the most difficult to treat, although that does not mean that they are not manageable. There continues to be ample research done on personality disorder treatment methods, and there are plenty of ways to manage your condition if you can develop an awareness of your emotions and patterns of behavior.
Psychotherapy is one of the most helpful ways to increase your awareness and manage your symptoms.
If you or your loved one's personality disorder is creating significant distress in daily functioning, rehab may be a good place to pause and focus on your wellbeing in an environment that is conducive to learning and healing. You can attend rehab part-time or full-time, depending on the severity of your symptoms. These include:
If you're feeling discouraged, remember that with good awareness, mental health care, and support from your family and friends, you can manage your symptoms and work toward a better version of yourself.
Residential rehab offers you or your loved one the opportunity to start anew in a setting tailored to your needs. With a variety of available options, one is sure to be perfect for you.