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