Personalities differ from person to person. People develop their personalities as they undergo various life experiences. Most people learn from their past experiences and are flexible in moulding their personality according to the situation. However, a person with a personality disorder finds it difficult to cope with it. They display extreme thoughts and behaviour. These thoughts and behaviour are so extreme that it hampers their day-to-day life. A person suffering from personality disorder is driven by deep urges and strong feelings that they cannot ignore and end up acting in an uncontrollable manner. They face problems in relating to people and situations and thus, face problems in relationships and work. Let’s take a closer look:
1. Types of Personality Disorder
Personality disorders are widely classified into three categories:
Type A: This is marked by odd, suspicious and a bit eccentric thoughts and behaviours. It includes schizotypal personality disorder, paranoid personality disorder, and schizoid personality disorder.
Type B: This is characterised by dramatic, emotional and impulsive behaviour. The most common personality disorder under Type B includes Histrionic Personality Disorder, Borderline Personality disorder, Antisocial Personality Disorder, and Narcissistic Personality Disorder.
Type C: The disorders under this category is characterised by anxiety and fearful thoughts. The common disorders under this cluster include Obsessive-compulsive Disorder, Dependent Personality Disorder, and Avoidant Personality Disorder.
2. Symptoms of Personality Disorder
Each Personality Disorder comes with different symptoms. Long-term and disruptive thought patterns, behaviour and emotions that cause distress and interferes with normal life functioning is a sign of personality disorder. People with personality disorder struggle with maintaining relationships and work and have issues such as substance disorder. Such people also suffer from anxiety and depression. The best way to diagnose a personality disorder is to consult a psychiatrist for further assessments. People with personality disorder are generally unaware of their problems, so, they find difficult to seek help.
3. What Causes Personality Disorder?
Though the exact cause of personality disorder is yet unknown but, a number of factors are held responsible for it. Personality develops in childhood when the genetic factors and environmental factors interact. Environmental factors such as abuse or trauma can trigger this disorder. Scientists are exploring genetic links to personality disorder.
4. How can it be treated?
The first step to treatment is consulting an expert professional or a psychiatrist. Treatment may vary according to the type of disorder. Psychotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for personality disorder. It helps the patient to manage their symptoms and make positive changes. Experts also resort to medication to treat personality disorder. This works best when combined with psychotherapy.
The behaviour of a person suffering from a personality disorder is difficult and dangerous at times. Others might find their behaviour strange; however, it is important to understand that such persons are in dire need of help. If you too know any such person or a loved one who is having such difficulties, then consult a psychiatrist. For getting in touch with the best psychiatrist in Kolkata, contact us at Moner Alo.
