Medically Reviewed:
Dr. Randy Gelow, MD, FASAM
Ray Hamilton, DNP, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C
Last Updated: March 22, 2025
Personality disorders are complex mental health conditions that affect how people think, feel, and interact with others. People often miss or misunderstand these disorders, leaving many without the right care.
The effects can be serious, making it hard to have healthy relationships, succeed at work, or feel good about yourself. Understanding personality disorders and how to treat them can help those affected lead better, more stable lives.
About 9% of people in the U.S. have a personality disorder. However, doctors often fail to diagnose these disorders. People may not seek help or may not notice the signs. Sometimes, the symptoms are so deeply part of a person’s identity that they go unnoticed.
Recognizing how common personality disorders are helps to break the stigma around them. Understanding that many people struggle with these conditions makes it easier to talk about and seek treatment.
Personality disorders can happen because of different reasons. Some of the common causes include:
These factors can help explain why some people develop these disorders.
Personality disorders usually show up during adolescence or early adulthood. Some early signs include:
Addressing these symptoms as soon as they appear allows individuals to get the support they need to develop healthier coping mechanisms and build stronger relationships.
Personality disorders divide into three groups: A, B, and C. Each group has different disorders with unique symptoms.
Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
It’s important to understand the difference between personality disorders and mood disorders:
For example, someone with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) may have unstable relationships and mood swings, while someone with Bipolar Disorder may experience mood shifts without the relationship instability.
The right therapy depends on the type of personality disorder. Here are some effective therapies:
You can use these therapies alone or together to improve coping skills and relationships.
Although personality disorders can’t be “cured” in the traditional sense, you can manage them effectively with ongoing treatment. Therapy helps individuals change harmful patterns of behavior and develop healthier coping strategies.
With the right treatment, many people with personality disorders experience long-term improvements. Ongoing care and support are key to maintaining progress and living a fulfilling life.
Without treatment, personality disorders can lead to serious consequences, such as broken relationships, substance abuse, and worsening symptoms. These conditions can impact every area of life, making it difficult to function.
Seeking treatment can prevent these negative outcomes. Early intervention helps individuals avoid long-term struggles and regain control of their lives.
If you have both a personality disorder and substance use issues, dual diagnosis treatment is necessary. The Hope House provides care that addresses both issues at once. This integrated care gives individuals the best chance for long-term recovery.
This approach provides individuals with the tools they need to heal and move toward lasting recovery. With the right support, addressing both disorders at the same time greatly improves the chances for a successful outcome.
Online therapy offers a convenient option for treating personality disorders. It allows for privacy and flexibility, but may not offer the full range of services, such as group therapy or immediate crisis support.
While online therapy can be helpful, it’s important to understand its limitations. Consider the severity of the disorder and whether online therapy can fully meet your needs before deciding if it’s the right choice.
Choosing the right therapy program is important for long-term success. When considering a program, it’s essential to make sure it tailors its approach to your specific needs. Personalized care ensures that you receive the most effective treatment for your unique situation.
Additionally, it’s crucial to choose a program that employs licensed therapists who are trained in treating personality disorders. These professionals will have the expertise needed to help you manage your condition and work toward recovery.
If you are dealing with both a personality disorder and substance use issues, it’s also important to find a program that offers dual diagnosis support. This integrated care will address both issues simultaneously, giving you the best chance for long-term recovery.
At The Hope House, we provide personalized care to meet your unique needs. Our team offers dual diagnosis treatment, family therapy, and holistic approaches to help you on your recovery journey. Our goal is to help you build the skills needed for long-term stability.
If you or someone you love is struggling with a personality disorder, help is available. With the right therapy and support, it’s possible to manage symptoms and live a fulfilling life. Reach out to The Hope House today to learn more about our programs and how we can help.
