Personality Disorders

What is Personality Disorder? 


Personality is the way of thinking, feeling and behaving that makes a person different from other people. A person with a personality disorder thinks, feels, behaves or relates to others very differently from the average person.

Definition :- 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. 

There are many different types of personality disorder :-


1) Paranoid Personality Disorder - It is a type of personality disorder characterized by a pervasive distrust and suspiciousness of others, even without sufficient evidence. People with PPD often have a deep-seated belief that others are out to harm them, deceive them, or take advantage of them.

2) Schizoid Personality Disorder (SPD)- It is characterized by a lack of interest in social relationships, a preference for lonliness , and a limited range of emotional expression.

3) Schizotypal Personality Disorder - It is characterized by unusual behaviors, beliefs, and thought patterns. They may also avoid having intimate relationships. People with (STPD) often believe that they can influence other people or events with their thoughts.

4) Antisocial Personality Disorder - It is characterized by a pattern of disregard for the rights of others and a lack of empathy. People with ASPD may engage in behaviors that are harmful to themselves and others, and may have a history of legal and social problems.

5)Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) - It is characterized by intense and unstable emotions, impulsive behaviors, and difficulties with interpersonal relationships. People with BPD may experience intense fear of abandonment may have difficulty dealing with stressful events.

6) Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD) - People with  frequently try to gain more attention by being dramatic. They may be easily influenced by other people and are sensitive to criticism.

7) Narcissistic personality disorder -  People with (NPD) often believe that they are more important than others. Other symptoms include a deep need for admiration but lack empathy for other people.

8) Avoidant personality disorder - People with (APD) often experience feelings of inadequacy, inferiority, or unattractiveness. They tend to avoid social interaction due to the intense fear of being rejected.

9) Dependent personality disorder - People with (DPD) depend on other people to meet their emotional and physical needs. They usually avoid being alone and regularly need reassurance when making decisions.

10) Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder - People with obsessive-compulsive personality disorder have an overwhelming need for order.



Treatments for Personality Disorder:-


• Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy is a type of talk therapy that can be effective in treating personality disorders. It can help people with personality disorders understand their emotions and behaviors, develop coping strategies, and improve their relationships.

• Hospitalization: In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary to provide a safe and supportive environment for people with severe personality disorders who are at risk of harming themselves or others.

• Supportive services: Supportive services, such as case management, peer support, and vocational rehabilitation, can help people with personality disorders manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

• Lifestyle changes: Making lifestyle changes, such as getting regular exercise, practicing stress-management techniques, and avoiding drugs and alcohol.

• Medication: Medication can be prescribed to help manage specific symptoms of personality disorders, such as anxiety or depression.