The article is developed in partnership with BetterHelp.

Everyone has a personality; it’s what makes each of us unique individuals. Usually, it is someone’s personality that makes them memorable and even enjoyable (or unbearable) to be around. Personality gets even more tricky when you consider the factors that can affect it. Things like stress, depression, and anxiety can make a person more on edge, down, or impulsive than usual. However, some people even have personality disorders which can impact their daily life depending on how the disorder presents itself. Understanding the various kinds of conditions that exist can help you recognize them in yourself and others. It can also help you empathize with those who have these disorders. You can visit https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/personality-disorders/ for more insight if this is a topic you’re particularly curious about. All in all, having more knowledge in this area can be highly beneficial whether or not you’re personally experiencing a personality disorder.

What Are Personality Disorders?

A personality disorder is a pattern of behavior that diverges from what is normal or expected from a person. It might be unhealthy, disruptive, or maladaptive. Whether it’s different moods, thoughts, experiences, or actions, these types of conditions can greatly impact the way a person lives their daily life. They might have issues at home, at school, or in their workplace, among others. Relationships are often impacted as well, whether they’re romantic, platonic, or career related. When someone has a personality disorder, they will be affected in at least of the following areas:

  • How they think about themselves and other people
  • The manner in which they respond to emotionally to events, situations, and people
  • Their level of self-control and how they behave
  • How they relate to other people

When Does a Personality Disorder Start?

The majority of personality disorders begin in the teenage years which is when a person is still fully maturing. However, many people don’t seek help for their disorder until later, meaning that most people aren’t officially diagnosed until they’re an adult. Anyone can be diagnosed at any age though. In many instances, an individual with a personality disorder doesn’t think there’s anything wrong with them, especially if they’re used to the behaviors and thoughts. This can delay diagnosis and treatment, making symptoms worse over time. It’s vital that people who think they have a disorder seek help as soon as possible as early intervention can help a lot.

What Causes Personality Disorders?

Although there is no known cause of personality disorders, research suggests that it is a combination of genetics, environment, and other factors that contribute to their development. If someone is abused or experiences trauma, they may have a higher likelihood of developing a personality disorder. In addition, kids who have a sensitivity to light, sound, texture, or other stimuli are more likely to have an anxious or shy personality.

On the other hand, there are positive experiences that can keep someone from developing a personality disorder. Studies show that having just one good relationship with another person can offset other negative experiences. This might be a teacher, friend, or parent. Although the cause might be mostly unknown, there are plenty of treatments available to manage symptoms should someone need it.

If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse in any form, reach out right away to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1.800.799.SAFE (7233) for immediate support, advice, and assistance.

Types of Personality Disorders

There are an endless number of personality disorders, and each presents itself differently. Below are some examples, broken down by cluster. The three cluster types are A (eccentric), B (impulsive), and C (anxious).

Cluster A:

  • Paranoid – Marked by paranoia, suspicion, and distrust of other people for no apparent reason. They may show jealous, angry, or secretive behavior.
  • Schizoid – Characterized by isolation and withdrawal from interactions with other people. They’re usually cold and preoccupied with the inner workings of their own mind.
  • Schizotypal – A mixture of paranoia and withdrawal from other people. They may show odd behavior and have a hard time forming relationships with others.

Cluster B:

  • Antisocial – Marked by a disregard for right and wrong and a lack of remorse for one’s actions. This disorder often shows up in childhood.
  • Borderline – Characterized by instability, emotional swings, chronic emptiness, impulsivity, and fear of abandonment.
  • Histrionic – Marked by patterns of attention-seeking behavior and a need for constant approval. Usually, they need to be the center of attention and can be overly seductive.
  • Narcissistic – Condition in which people have an inflated sense of self-importance and a lack of empathy. Usually, they are very charming and exaggerate their achievements.

Cluster C:

  • Dependent – Marked by anxiousness in relationships, low self-confidence, and an inability to make one’s own decisions. They can struggle with being alone.
  • Avoidant – Characterized by social isolation, extreme feelings of inadequacy, sensitivity to rejection, and inability to accept criticism. It often appears in childhood.
  • Obsessive-compulsive – Marked by perfectionism, orderliness, control, and cleanliness with no room for flexibility. This differs from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Treatment for Personality Disorders

The type of treatment pursued for a personality disorder depends on the type, the needs of the individual, how intense the symptoms are, and other factors. Usually, someone with a personality disorder will need to see a mental health professional to start their treatment regimen. Sometimes, people can manage their symptoms with talk therapy alone. Other times, they will need specific therapies along with medication. It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis so that the correct disorder is being treated.

 

Personality disorders can greatly impact one’s life. If you think you have one, it’s vital to seek support right away as symptoms can grow worse over time if left untreated. Although movies and TV shows depict personality disorders a certain way, much of the time these representations can be inaccurate or misleading. Rather than getting information about personality disorders from the internet or Hollywood, it’s better to seek an expert’s advice. Only then can you come to understand them accurately. Whether you have a personality disorder already or suspect you do, help is always available, and you are not alone.