Personality Disorders:
Where to Begin

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Each of us has a unique personality that has developed through time and life experiences. Most have the flexibility to learn from past experiences and use what they learn to change their behavior. We also have our own different and unique personality quirks. Our personalities are varied, having positive and negative aspects. We have the ability to explore our personalities and change aspects that don’t work for us as well. Unfortunately, this can be complicated and even more so if you experience symptoms of a personality disorder. 

Personality disorders can impact the way we react to others and the world around us. There are a variety of different kinds of personality disorders, each with their own set of symptoms and behaviors. This can greatly impact the way you function in your life and the quality of your relationships. Though it may be difficult to make changes when you have a personality disorder it certainly isn’t impossible! 

The Reality of Personality Disorders

It is estimated that 10% of the general population meets criteria for a personality disorder. Some of the common types of personality disorders include borderline personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, and dependent personality disorder. Those with antisocial personality disorder may pose harm to others while those diagnosed with borderline or paranoid personality disorder are three times higher at risk of self-harm than the average person.

The symptoms vary for each type, ranging from mild to severe. Even if the signs are clear, you may have trouble recognizing what is getting in your way. For you, your thoughts and actions may seem reasonable and it is everyone else that needs to make changes. 

Certain factors have been identified to contribute to the development of a personality disorder. These factors can include neurological and genetic factors, and history of childhood abuse or trauma. 

Since there are a number of personality disorders there are a number of symptoms that could indicate a personality disorder. General Personality Disorder, as outlined in the DSM-5-TR, consists of the following criteria which can also be seen in other personality disorders:

There exists an ongoing pattern of internal experience and behaviors that are inconsistent with an individual’s culture as well as unhealthy or maladaptive thoughts, emotional response, relationships and impulse control. Along with these unhealthy aspects there is also inflexibility, a great deal of distress and difficulty functioning due to these patterns of behavior and thinking. 

The Only Help You Need

No one likes to be told that they need to make changes. But, if you experience frequent mood swings, difficulty developing and sustaining relationships, poor impulse control, or frequent angry outbursts it can be difficult to live your life the way you’d like to. Regardless of type, personality disorder can make it difficult for you to have healthy relationships and meet your goals.

Personality disorders often happen in conjunction with depression, anxiety, PTSD etc. All of which are treatable with appropriate intervention. Finding a therapist well trained in treating personality disorders, that you can trust, can be important to your recovery.  

Carolina Counseling Services – Fuquay-Varina, NC contacts with licensed therapists skilled in treatment approaches to address personality disorders. Call now to request an appointment.

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