Treating Personality Disorders

A personality disorder is a label to describe ways of living that cause distress for you, those you relate to, or both.

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Your personality is influenced by your experiences, environment, and the traits you inherit. A personality disorder means a way of thinking, feeling, and behaving that is different than what a culture expects. It causes distress or problems with daily activities. And it lasts over time. For example, you may blame others for your problems. You may believe that you can't control what happens in your life. You may have trouble seeing another person’s point of view. You may not be concerned at all about how others feel. These patterns of seeing the world may lead to unhappiness, anxiety, or depression.

Treatment for personality disorders

It can be challenging to diagnose and treat a personality disorder. But know that treatment is available. Therapy and medicines can help. Medicines can help depression and anxiety symptoms. They can help keep your mood stable. But talk therapy is the main treatment. Several forms of talk therapy can help you understand your personality disorder and how it relates to your current problems. It can also help you learn new ways of behaving, coping, and solving problems.

To get better, you must want to change your life and the old ways of behaving. No one can do this for you. It means changing the way you think about yourself and others. It also means changing the ways you act. It’s possible to heal and learn a healthier, more fulfilling way of living. This can be done with a support system, such as a therapist, group support, friends, and family.

These tips may help:

  • If medicines have been prescribed, take them as directed. Don't stop taking your medicines or change the dose unless you check with your doctor.

  • Make an appointment and keep it if you were referred to a therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist. Ask your primary care doctor for another referral if you can't relate to the therapist. Keep searching until you find a therapist you trust.

  • Tell all your health care providers about all the prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements you take. Some supplements interact with medicines. They can cause dangerous side effects. You can ask your pharmacist when you have questions about medicine interactions.

Here are some self-care tips:

  • Join a support group.

  • Stay in touch with family and friends. Share information with a trusted friend or family member. Ask for their support.

  • Practice relaxation methods, such as meditation or listening to soothing music.

  • Don’t use drugs.

  • Limit or don’t use alcohol.

  • Get some physical activity daily.

Call or text 988

If you are in a crisis or have thoughts of suicide or self-harm, call or text 988right away. This is the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You will be connected to a trained counselor you can talk to. There's also an online chat option. You can also call Lifeline at 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255). The 988 Lifeline is free and available 24/7.

When to contact your doctor

Contact your doctor right away if:

  • You feel extreme depression, fear, anxiety, or anger toward yourself or others.

  • You have relationship problems with family, friends, or coworkers that get worse.

  • You feel out of control.

  • You feel that you may try to harm yourself or another.

  • You can't sleep or eat for 3 days in a row.

  • Family or trusted friends ask you to get help.

To learn more