Your personality is your own set of traits that make up who you are and how you see the world. We all have certain traits that shape how we handle stress, adjust to new situations, and engage in relationships. But people with personality disorders have traits that make their lives difficult. They do not adjust to changes well and usually have trouble getting along with other people.
There are several types of personality disorders. You might be afraid of other people and prefer being alone. You could fear that people are against you. You might think poorly of yourself and be depressed. You might be very angry, even violent, and have little concern for laws. You could see the world as clearly divided into "good" and "bad" and think people who are not like you are bad. Any of these traits can become a big problem for you and the people around you.
Long-term therapy and medicine may help many people with personality disorders. Your doctor can set up a treatment plan to help you learn behavior control and new ways to cope with people and events around you.
A personality disorder is a type of mental disorder that causes a person to think, feel, and act differently than what is considered normal. These abnormal attitudes and behaviors are not likely to change and can cause the person problems in all areas of life, such as trouble getting along with others at work or in the home.
People with personality disorders may be described as manipulative or self-centered. They may lack empathy for others and have trouble following social norms. Personality disorders are lifelong and are often first noticed in early adulthood.
Examples of personality disorders include antisocial personality disorder, borderline personality disorder, and dependent personality disorder.
Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:
Consider saving these numbers in your phone.
Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online.
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
Where to get help 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
If you or someone you know talks about suicide, self-harm, a mental health crisis, a substance use crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, get help right away. You can:
Consider saving these numbers in your phone.
Go to 988lifeline.org for more information or to chat online.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
©2011-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated