What are personality disorders?
The word ‘personality’ refers to the collection of characteristics or traits we develop as we grow up and which make each of us an individual. These include the ways we think, feel and behave. The make-up of a personality, how it is developed and how it evolves is highly complex and different for each individual.
Patients diagnosed with ‘personality disorder’ have developed unhealthy coping mechanisms to manage difficult emotions and situations, day-to-day life and relationships.
They often struggle to find a way of communicating this and are left feeling misunderstood or unheard. This can impact on their friends, family and others around them.
The understanding of what it means to experience a personality disorder is constantly evolving. People have different views about the term, and not everyone agrees with using it.
Life is hard but it is even more difficult for people with personality disorders, so they are more likely to have other mental health problems such as depression, or drug and alcohol problems.
The important thing to remember is the feelings and behaviours associated with personality disorders are very difficult to live with. However people understand their diagnosis, and whatever terms they prefer to use, those living with personality disorder, deserve understanding and support.
There are different types of personality disorder. Find more information on these websites:
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