Personality disorders are complex mental health conditions that affect how individuals think, feel, and behave. They can significantly impact relationships, work, and overall quality of life. But as soon as we hear the word disorder with a mental condition attached to it, it becomes alien and extreme to us; even though personality disorders are much more common than you think.
A study published in the British Journal of Psychiatry: The Journal of Mental Science assessed a total of 46 studies from 21 different countries across continents. They estimated that the worldwide prevalence of personality disorders is 7.8%. It may seem a small number, but adjusting for the world population as of 2020 (that’s when the study was conducted), it amounts to almost 6.1 million people globally. That is why it is essential to be aware of personality disorders. Here is a guide to 10 of the most common personality disorders, their symptoms, and treatment options.
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
The National Institute of Mental Health defined borderline personality disorder as a condition characterised by:
- Intense mood swings
- Unstable self-image
- Impulsive behaviours
- Turbulent relationships
People with BPD may experience fear of abandonment and engage in self-harming behaviours.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)
Those who have a narcissistic personality disorder, according to Harvard Medical School, have:
- Inflated sense of self-importance
- A constant need for admiration
- Alack of empathy
- Often exploit others for their gain.
They may have fantasies of unlimited success, power, or beauty.
Avoidant Personality Disorder (AVPD)
The National Health Service said that AVPD involves:
- Extreme shyness
- Feelings of inadequacy
- Hypersensitivity to rejection or criticism
- Avoidance of social interactions
Individuals with AVPD may desire close relationships but fear rejection.
Also Read: Signs Your Partner Has A Borderline Personality Disorder
Dependent Personality Disorder (DPD)
An article published in the journal Cureus defined dependent personality disorder as being characterised by:
- Excessive dependence on others for emotional and decision-making support
- Fear of being alone
- Difficulty expressing disagreement
- Low self-confidence
Individuals with DPD may struggle to make independent choices.
Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD)
Unlike Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), which involves specific rituals or obsessions, researchers from the Royal College of Psychiatrists said that OCPD is marked by:
- Perfectionism
- Preoccupation with rules and order
- Excessive devotion to work
- Difficulty with flexibility or openness to new ideas
Paranoid Personality Disorder (PPD)
As per Current Behavioural Neuroscience Reports, PPD involves:
- Distrust and suspicion of others' motives
- Belief in hidden threats or conspiracies
- Hypersensitivity to criticism or perceived insults
- Reluctance to confide in others
Individuals with PPD may interpret neutral actions as hostile.
Do I Suffer from Any Personality Disorder?
Like all mental health conditions, personality disorders lie on a spectrum. Not everyone with a personality disorder will exhibit the symptoms in extreme. If you suspect you or someone you know may have a personality disorder, it's crucial to seek professional evaluation and treatment. Therapy, medication, and support groups can be beneficial in managing symptoms and improving quality of life. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and with the right support, people with personality disorders can lead fulfilling lives.