Contix has extensive experience in supporting residents with personality disorders. We offer bespoke support to suit their individual needs. We pride ourselves on a non-judgemental and effective approach to supporting our residents. If you are a family member concerned about a loved one, please get in touch with us or read the following information.
A person with a personality disorder appears to think, sound, act and relate very differently from the average individual. Several types of personality disorder are distinct. This webpage includes some information about personality disorders in general.
Symptoms
Based on the type of personality disorder, symptoms vary. An individual with borderline personality disorder (one of the most common types) appears to have disturbed patterns of thinking, impulsivity, and emotion control issues.
They may well have relationships that are intense but volatile and may worry about people abandoning them. Typically, a person with an antisocial personality disorder will get frustrated quickly and may have trouble trying to control their anger.
They may start blaming someone else for the problems in their lives, and they may be violent and aggressive by distressing someone with their behaviour.
People with a personality disorder may also have other issues with their mental health, such as depression and misuse of substances.
Personality Disorder Treatment
Treatment typically requires talking therapy. This is where the client speaks to a therapist to understand their feelings, emotions, and behaviours. Depending on the severity of the condition and other issues the person may have, treatment can last several months or years.
A therapist can identify solutions to problems and, if appropriate, help them change their attitudes and behaviour patterns and listen and address important issues.
Therapeutic Communities
Therapeutic communities are environments used for an intensive form of group therapy. The individual usually attends for several weeks or months.
Medication
A doctor may prescribe a medicine to treat problems associated with a personality disorder such as depression, anxiety, or psychotic symptoms.
For example, a type of antidepressant called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor could be used for moderate to severe symptoms of depression (SSRI).
Recovery
Over time, many people with a personality disorder recover. Sometimes, psychological or medical treatment is effective, but often all that is needed is support.
There is no standard method of treatment suitable for everyone; treatment must be tailored to the individual.
Causes
What causes personality disorders is still not evident. Yet, they are assumed to develop due to the genes that a person inherits and early environmental factors, such as a traumatic experience as a child (such as abuse or neglect).
Supporting Individuals Living With a Personality Disorder.
Having a personality disorder can have a significant impact on a person’s life, as well as on their friends and family, although there is help available.
