What Are Personality Disorders?
Personality refers to the unique way a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It is shaped by life experiences, upbringing, environment, and inherited traits. Most people maintain a fairly consistent personality throughout their life.
A personality disorder occurs when these patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving differ significantly from cultural expectations, cause distress, and interfere with daily functioning. These patterns usually begin in late adolescence or early adulthood and tend to persist over time if not treated.
The DSM-5-TR outlines ten specific types of personality disorders. These disorders affect at least two major areas of functioning, such as:
The way a person thinks about themselves or others
Their emotional responses
How they relate to other people
How they control their behaviour
Types of Personality Disorders
Personality disorders are grouped into three clusters based on similar characteristics.
Group A Personality Disorders
These involve odd, eccentric thinking and behaviour.
1. Paranoid Personality Disorder
Marked by deep distrust and suspicion of others. People with this disorder often believe that others may harm or deceive them, leading to difficulty forming close relationships.
2. Schizoid Personality Disorder
Characterized by detachment from social relationships and limited emotional expression. Individuals may prefer being alone and appear indifferent to praise or criticism.
3. Schizotypal Personality Disorder
Involves discomfort in close relationships, unusual thinking, and eccentric behaviour. People may have odd beliefs, peculiar speech, or intense social anxiety.
Group B Personality Disorders
These involve dramatic, emotional, or unpredictable behaviour.
1. Borderline Personality Disorder
Marked by unstable relationships, intense emotions, a poor self-image, and impulsivity. Individuals may fear abandonment, display anger, or experience chronic feelings of emptiness.
2. Histrionic Personality Disorder
Characterized by excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behaviour. A person may feel uncomfortable when not the center of attention and may use appearance or dramatic expression to gain attention.
3. Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Involves a strong need for admiration and a lack of empathy. Individuals may have an inflated sense of self-importance, expect special treatment, or take advantage of others.
4. Antisocial Personality Disorder
A pattern of disregard for the rights of others. This may include deceitful behaviour, impulsivity, failure to follow social norms, or lack of remorse.
Group C Personality Disorders
These involve anxious, fearful thinking or behaviour.
1. Avoidant Personality Disorder
Marked by extreme shyness, sensitivity to criticism, and feelings of inadequacy. People often avoid social contact unless they feel completely accepted.
2. Dependent Personality Disorder
Characterized by an excessive need to be taken care of, leading to clingy and submissive behaviour. Individuals may struggle to make decisions without reassurance and may fear being alone.
3. Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD)
Involves a strong focus on order, perfection, and control. People may become overly concerned with rules, schedules, and details, often at the cost of flexibility and relationships.
(Note: This is different from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, which involves unwanted intrusive thoughts and compulsions.)
Treatment for Personality Disorders
While personality disorders can be long-lasting, many people benefit greatly from treatment. Psychotherapy is considered the most effective approach. Through therapy, individuals can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviour patterns and learn healthier ways to cope and relate to others.
Common types of psychotherapy include:
• Psychodynamic or psychoanalytic therapy
Helps individuals understand unconscious thoughts and past experiences that may influence current behaviour.
• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
Often used for borderline personality disorder, DBT focuses on emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and improving relationships.
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Helps identify and change unhealthy thought patterns and behaviours.
• Group therapy
Provides support and opportunities to practice social skills.
• Psychoeducation
Educates individuals and families about the disorder, symptoms, and strategies for coping.
There are no medications that specifically treat personality disorders. However, certain medicines—such as antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, or mood stabilizers—may help manage associated symptoms. For severe cases, a coordinated care team may be needed, including therapists, psychiatrists, social workers, and family members.
Self-Care and Coping Strategies
Along with professional treatment, lifestyle changes and self-care can support recovery:
Learn about the condition: Awareness helps with better understanding and motivation.
Stay active: Regular physical activity can reduce stress, anxiety, and low mood.
Avoid alcohol and drugs: These substances can worsen symptoms or interact with medications.
Prioritize health checkups: Routine medical care is important for overall well-being.
Join support groups: Connecting with others facing similar challenges can provide comfort and guidance.
Keep a journal: Writing can help process emotions and recognize patterns.
Use relaxation techniques: Yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises can help manage stress.
Stay connected: Maintaining relationships with family and friends prevents isolation.
Family members also play an important role. Supporting a loved one with a personality disorder can be challenging, and caregivers may also benefit from speaking with a mental health professional for guidance and emotional support.
Conclusion
Personality disorders can deeply impact emotions, behaviour, and relationships, but effective treatment and support can help individuals lead more stable and fulfilling lives. With the right therapy, coping strategies, and guidance, meaningful improvement is absolutely possible.
If you or someone you know is dealing with symptoms of a personality disorder, consulting a qualified mental health professional can be a positive first step. For compassionate evaluation and personalized care, you can reach out to Dr. Vatsal Suchak, who offers supportive and structured treatment to help individuals manage their mental health more confidently.
FAQs
A personality disorder is a long-term pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviours that differ from cultural expectations and make daily life difficult. These patterns usually begin in adolescence or early adulthood.
There is no single cause. Personality disorders often develop due to a mix of genetics, childhood experiences, environment, and inherited traits.
Yes, they are classified as mental health conditions. They affect mood, behaviour, and relationships, just like other mental health disorders.
Yes. Personality traits begin to form during adolescence, and early treatment can help prevent long-term difficulties and improve emotional development.