Personality issues

A person with a personality disorder thinks, feels, behaves or relates to others very differently from the average person. There are several different types of personality disorder, all with separate criteria and levels of severity, intensity, and functional impairment. Some people with personality disorder may engage in self-harm and self-damaging behaviour, as well as behaviours that harm other people. Treatment for a personality disorder usually involves long term psychotherapy, and for some people, group therapy or medications can also be helpful.

Borderline personality disorder (emotionally unstable personality disorder)

Borderline personality disorder (also known as emotionally unstable personality disorder) is a psychiatric disorder that impacts mood regulation, the ability to tolerate distresss, and interpersonal relationships. A borderline personality can cause signficant difficulties for the perosn as they may experience periods of emotional instability, distress, abandonment feelings, distrust of others, and unstable relationships. These symtpoms can range from mild to severe and usually start emerging in adolescents, and persist into adulthood.

Psychology Hut clinicians are experienced in the assessment and treatment of borderline personality disorder and our psychologists have many years in the practice of dialectical behavoour therapy, which is the leading therapeutic intervention for this disorder. NICE guidelines recommend weekly DBT one-to-one sessions and regular group sessions. For adolescents, family-based interventions are also recommended.

Narcissistic personality disorder

Narcissistic personality disorder is a psychiatric disorder characterised by an inflated sense of self-importance, a deep need for excessive attention and admiration, troubled relationships, and a lack of empathy for others. People with narcissistic personality disorder are generally resistant to changing their behaviour, even when the behaviour is causing them problems. Their tendency is to turn the blame towards others. If you have a reltiosnhip with someone who has narcissistic personality disorder, it is important to keep healthy boundaries and expectations.

Avoidant personality disorder

Avoidant personality disorder is a psychiatric disorder characterised by feelings of extreme social inhibition, inadequacy, and sensitivity to negative criticism and rejection. Yet the symptoms involve more than simply being shy or socially awkward. Avoidant personality disorder causes significant problems that affect the ability to interact with others and maintain relationships in day-to-day life. Psychotherapy is the main tratment for avoidant personality disorder.