Personality disorder can be difficult to define as the way we behave – and appear with different people – can vary depending on the situation we are in, for example, at work, at home. Research shows up to 1 in 5 people might have a personality disorder and it can result in depression, drug taking or alcoholic problems.
Those with personality disorder tend to find it difficult to:
- Make or keep relationships.
- Get on with people at work.
- Get on with friends and family.
- Keep out of trouble.
- Control feelings or behaviour.
- Listen to others.
Personality disorder can be caused by upbringing (physical/sexual abuse in childhood, violence in family, parents who drink too much); early problems (severe aggression, disobedience and repeated temper tantrums can be a sign in childhood); triggers (drugs, alcohol, problems with family/partner, money problems, anxiety, depression/other mental health problems, important events, stressful situations).
Those with borderline or emotionally unstable personality disorder can display the following:
- Impulsiveness.
- Trouble controlling emotions.
- Low self esteem.
- Self-Harm.
- Make relationships quickly but easily lose them.
- Paranoia or depression.
- When stressed, may hear noises or voices.
How can Personality Disorder be treated?
- Psychological – talking therapies individually and/or in a group.
- Physical – medication such as antipsychotic drugs, antidepressants, mood stabilisers.
- Self – unwind when stressed, sleep, eat a balanced diet, avoid too much alcohol, regularly exercise, take up an interest/hobby.
The views here are the author’s and are intended for general guidance only