Personality Disorders
Personality disorders are oftentimes misunderstood as being more exaggerated and theatrical than they commonly are (thanks to Hollywood and sensational writers). Some of the most successful leaders, writers, entrepreneurs, actors, poets and artists have been documented to struggle with personality disorders. That's not to say that some personality disorders aren’t grossly more distressing than others, but the public image of these complex personalities is generally unrealistic and misunderstood.
What is a personality disorder and can it be treated?
What we call “personality disorder” is a very complex personality in which the very threads of it are pervasively interwoven with survival responses, excessive thought processes and oftentimes relational struggles. Personality disorders are controversial in the clinical community, regarding the formation, as well as treatment. In my research, and practice, I would agree with the studies that suggest personality disorder formation can begin forming with an assortment of adverse experiences in childhood, environmental factors, genetics and epigenetics. I do believe that personality disorders can be treated, to various degrees, based on a multitude of factors. However, personality disorders are known to take tremendous dedication, as treatment tends to demand years of continuous psychotherapy. Medication, prescribed by a psychiatrist who has experience working with personality disorders, can also be helpful at times. It’s important to understand that each person will have a different treatment course, as every personality structure is different.
Borderline, Narcissistic and Other Personality Disorders
Some more common examples of personality disorders, according to the Diagnostic Statistical Manual, 5th edition, would include Borderline Personality Disorder, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder, Dependent Personality Disorder, Avoidant Personality Disorder, Antisocial Personality Disorder and more.
