Personality Disorders
We’re all like a unique puzzle: made up of thoughts, feelings and actions that define who we are. But sometimes, these pieces don’t quite fit together smoothly. They can lead to challenges that may affect our relationships, our ability to cope with stress and our wellbeing which could be in the form of personality disorders.
Personality disorders can make it harder to navigate through difficult situations and maintain stable connections with others. They can show up in different ways, from unpredictable mood swings to impulsive behaviours and can often leave individuals feeling lost and unsure of themselves. Reports have shown that around 6-10% of the general population have a personality disorder.
Seeking support and guidance from professionals is crucial in understanding and managing these challenges. However, diagnosing personality disorders can be complex, as their symptoms often overlap with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression.
Common myths about
personality disorders
Personality disorders are just a phase or a sign of weakness
Personality disorders involve deep-seated patterns of thinking, feeling and behaving that can significantly impact an individual’s life and relationships. These disorders often stem from a combination of genetic and environmental factors, and they typically require professional intervention and support for effective management.
People with personality disorders are attention-seeking or manipulative
These behaviours are not intentional attempts to cause harm but are rather challenges of living with a personality disorder. Compassionate and understanding support is crucial in helping individuals with these conditions navigate their difficulties and work towards recovery.
Personality disorders cannot be treated or improved
Therapy approaches such as dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) can be beneficial in helping people develop coping skills, regulate their emotions and build healthier relationships. It’s essential to recognise that recovery from a personality disorder is possible with proper treatment and commitment.
Causes of personality disorders
While the exact causes remain unclear, factors such as genetics, upbringing and past experiences may play a role in their development. For instance, people with history of past trauma, such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse and neglect are more likely to be diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD).
Additionally, environmental stressors and ongoing life challenges can exacerbate these conditions, making them more pronounced or difficult to manage. For example, chronic stress, unstable relationships and significant life transitions often act as triggers that can intensify symptoms.
Symptoms
The symptoms can vary widely depending on the specific type of disorder but may include:
- Fluctuating moods and emotions
- Fear of abandonment and difficulty in maintaining stable relationships
- Impulsive and reckless behaviour
- Identity confusion and feelings of emptiness
- Self-harming tendencies or thoughts of suicide
- Intense anger and difficulty controlling impulses
- Dissociation
- Suspiciousness or paranoia.
Types of personality disorders
There are ten different personality disorders (PD) are typically categorised into three main clusters, each characterised by distinct patterns of behaviour:
Cluster A: Difficulty in relating to others
PDs such as paranoid, schizoid, and schizotypal personality disorders may involve difficulties in forming close relationships, feeling suspicious of others and experiencing social detachment.
Cluster B: Difficulty in emotional regulation
PDs like borderline [sometimes called Emotionally Unstable (EUPD)], narcissistic, antisocial and histrionic personality disorders are marked by challenges in controlling emotions, impulsivity and a heightened sensitivity to rejection or criticism.
Cluster C: Intense fear or anxiety
PDs, including dependent, avoidant and obsessive-compulsive (not to be confused with OCD) personality disorders, often involve extreme fears of abandonment, rejection or criticism, leading to behaviours aimed at avoiding perceived threats and maintaining a sense of control.
Understanding the specific type of personality disorder can provide valuable insights into individual challenges and guide the development of treatment approaches aimed at improving overall quality of life. Remember that it is important not to diagnose yourself or others but to contact your GP or a health professional for any medical advice.
How do I support someone with a personality disorder?
There are many ways you can support someone with a personality disorder. Here are a few simple ways:
Educate yourself: Understanding the specific personality disorder your loved one is facing is crucial. It helps you comprehend their experiences, challenges and needs better. With knowledge, you can offer more informed support and avoid misconceptions.
Provide emotional support: Show empathy, compassion and non-judgmental understanding towards your loved one. Offer a safe space for them to express their feelings and thoughts without fear of criticism or rejection. Your emotional support can be immensely reassuring and validating for them.
Encourage professional help: Encourage your loved one to seek professional assistance from therapists or mental health professionals experienced in treating personality disorders. Offer to accompany them to appointments if they’re comfortable with you going along.
Professional guidance and therapy can provide effective strategies for managing symptoms and improving their quality of life.
Set boundaries: Set clear and healthy boundaries to protect yourself from being overwhelmed or emotionally drained. Communicate about your mental health respectfully and consistently, ensuring a balance between supporting them and taking care of yourself.
Be patient and persistent: Be patient with your loved one’s progress and setbacks and maintain a persistent presence in their life. Your consistent support, encouragement and belief in their ability to overcome obstacles can be invaluable in their recovery process.
support
Our Advice and Support Service is open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4pm (closed for lunch between 12.30pm and 1.30pm), where advisers can signpost you to local support that most fits your needs, including our Change Mental Health services. We offer initial advice on money worries and help to deal with emergencies.
Contact 0808 8010 515, email us at advice@changemh.org or fill out the enquiry form on the Advice and Support Service page.
Other support
Scottish Personality Disorder Network (SPDN) is a network dedicated to improving services and support for individuals with personality disorders in Scotland.
Breathing Space is a confidential helpline for people in Scotland feeling low, anxious, or depressed that can be contacted on 0800 83 85 87.
National Institute for Health Care and Excellence (NICE) provides information on recommended treatments for personality disorders
NHS Inform serves as Scotland’s primary health information resource, allowing you to be more informed about mental health conditions.
Samaritans (116 123) is a 24-hour anonymous service available every day of the year. If you prefer not to speak on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org.
