Understanding Personality Disorders: Types, Symptoms and Treatment

Personality disorders are enduring patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that deviate from cultural expectations and cause significant distress or impairment in personal, social, or occupational functioning.

These patterns typically emerge in adolescence or early adulthood and are inflexible across a broad range of situations.

What are Personality Disorders?

Personality disorders are mental health conditions that affect the way individuals relate to others and view themselves. Unlike temporary emotional issues, they are deep-rooted and long-lasting. They can have a significant impact on relationships, work, and overall wellbeing.

Living with a personality disorder can feel overwhelming, but it’s important to know you’re not alone, and effective support is available. Recognising the signs and seeking early support from a qualified therapist or psychologist can greatly improve outcomes.

Types of Personality Disorders

By: Denis Mihailov

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR) categorises personality disorders into three clusters:

Cluster A: Odd or Eccentric Disorders

• Paranoid Personality Disorder: Characterised by pervasive distrust and suspicion of others.
• Schizoid Personality Disorder: Marked by detachment from social relationships and a limited range of emotional expression.
• Schizotypal Personality Disorder: Involves acute discomfort in close relationships, cognitive or perceptual distortions, and eccentric behaviours.

Cluster B: Dramatic, Emotional, or Erratic Disorders

• Antisocial Personality Disorder: Involves a disregard for, and violation of, the rights of others.
• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): Characterised by instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and emotions, along with marked impulsivity.
• Histrionic Personality Disorder: Exhibits excessive emotionality and attention-seeking behaviour.
• Narcissistic Personality Disorder: Features grandiosity, need for admiration, and a lack of empathy.

Cluster C: Anxious or Fearful Disorders

• Avoidant Personality Disorder: Marked by social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation.
• Dependent Personality Disorder: Characterised by a pervasive and excessive need to be taken care of, leading to submissive and clinging behaviour.
• Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder: Involves preoccupation with orderliness, perfectionism and control.

It’s important to note that individuals may exhibit traits from multiple personality disorders, and the severity and impact can vary widely.

By: Matthew Miller

Latest Diagnostic Approaches

The DSM-5-TR also includes an alternative model for diagnosing personality disorders, which considers impairments in personality functioning and pathological traits. This model provides a more flexible and individualised way to understand complex personality presentations.

Personality Disorder Treatment Options

Psychological Therapy for Personality Disorders

Psychotherapy is the most effective form of treatment for personality disorders. Common evidence-based therapies include:

• Borderline Personality Disorder Treatment
  • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): Effective for borderline personality disorder, DBT combines cognitive-behavioural techniques with mindfulness and emotional regulation skills.
• CBT for Personality Disorders
  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps change unhelpful thinking patterns and behaviours.
• Relational and Dynamic Therapies
  • Cognitive Analytic Therapy (CAT): Combines cognitive and psychoanalytic approaches to address long-standing relational patterns.
  • Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP): Focuses on resolving unconscious emotional conflicts.

Medication for Personality Disorders

There is no medication that specifically cures personality disorders, but medications may help manage related symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or mood swings:

• Antidepressants
• Mood Stabilisers
• Antipsychotic Medication (in low doses where needed)

Medication is usually most effective when used alongside psychological therapy.

Innovative Treatments

• Neuromodulation Techniques: Including neurofeedback and brain stimulation, being explored in research settings.
• Investigational Drugs: New compounds such as psilocybin and vafidemstat are currently being researched for potential benefit in conditions like BPD.

By: Sancho McCann

Self-Help Strategies for Managing Personality Disorders

In addition to professional therapy, lifestyle changes can support mental health:

• Regular physical activity
• Balanced, nutritious diet
• Consistent sleep routine
• Practising mindfulness or meditation
• Avoiding recreational drugs and excessive alcohol

Frequently Asked Questions

Can personality disorders be cured? They cannot be “cured” in the traditional sense, but symptoms can be managed effectively with the right support. Many individuals experience significant improvements in relationships and wellbeing through therapy.

How long does therapy take? This varies from person to person. Some people benefit from short-term therapy, while others engage in long-term treatment to address deeper-rooted patterns.

What should I expect in my first session? Your first session will usually focus on understanding your history, symptoms, and goals. Your therapist will work with you to build a personalised treatment plan.

By: Giovanni Fasulo

When to Seek Help

If you’re experiencing ongoing difficulties in relationships, self-image, or emotional regulation, you might be dealing with a personality disorder. Reaching out to a qualified mental health professional can be the first step toward effective treatment and recovery.

Personality Disorder Treatment in London and Online

At Harley Therapy, we provide expert diagnosis and treatment for all types of personality disorders. Our team of experienced psychologists and psychiatrists in London and online offers compassionate, personalised care to help you move forward.

You deserve the right support, experienced mental health professionals are available to help you take the first step.

Call 0345 474 1724 or visit harleytherapy.co.uk to book an appointment.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any mental health concerns.