Mental disorders are no joke, especially personality disorders. Our personality is what makes us who we are as individuals. Our personality is a varied mixture of our thoughts, behaviors, attitudes, and moods. Not only do these traits define who we are, but they also determine how we interact with others and the society in general. Some aspects of a person’s personality are credited to genetics; however, as we grow older and evolve as human beings, our own individual personality is formed. A personality disorder is usually formed when one or more traits are dominant over other traits. It is said that approximately 10 to 13 percent of the entire world’s population suffers from one personality disorder. A person who suffers from a personality disorder tends to be of a one-track mind. They have certain behavioral patterns that are unique and completely different than what society deems as ‘normal’. A person who suffers from a personality disorder might find it difficult to form relationships with other people and might have very limited coping skills to survive in the world.
Now, what is the textbook definition of a personality disorder? According to medlineplus.gov:
‘Personality disorders are a group of mental illnesses. They involve long-term patterns of thoughts and behaviors that are unhealthy and inflexible. The behaviors cause serious problems with relationships and work. People with personality disorders have trouble dealing with everyday stresses and problems. They often have stormy relationships with other people.’
The causes of personality disorders are not exactly determined; however, genetics and childhood traumas or experiences play a huge role in the development of personality disorders.
As mentioned above, they are a group of mental illnesses. Which means there are multiple personality disorders that exist. Let’s take a look at the type of personality disorders:
Paranoid personality disorder- People with paranoid personality disorder find it incredibly difficult to trust people; even the people closest to them. They do not like confiding in people out of fear of betrayal or the belief that they might be taken advantage of. They are constantly paranoid and closely observe the people around them to look for signs of betrayal or hostility. Since they are incredibly paranoid, they tend to conjure up threats and dangers in everyday situations; though, those threats and dangers might not exist.
Schizoid personality disorder- People who suffer from schizoid personality disorder are often not interested in forming relationships with other people including members of their own family. They believe that close relationships or relationships in general cause problems and take away their freedom. They have little to no libido and are often cold towards others.
Schizotypal personality disorder- People with a schizotypal personality disorder as in the case of schizoid personality disorder, have a difficult time forming relationships with the people around them. They are considered to be eccentric and ‘odd’. They have a belief that they have otherworldly powers such as mind-reading or the sixth sense. And if the people around them do not support that belief, they tend to get anxious and paranoid.
Antisocial personality disorder- People who suffer from antisocial personality disorder tend to deviate from societal norms in ways that are dangerous to others or to themselves. They tend to have a pattern of self-sabotage, exploitation, and manipulation to get people to do what they want. They also have the tendency to violate basic human rights with zero remorse.
Narcissistic personality disorder- People who suffer from narcissistic personality disorder believe themselves to be of utmost importance. They have a very deeply rooted need to be the center of attention and admiration. Oftentimes, they cannot be in serious relationships because they believe that they should be put first at all times. They are manipulative and exploitive. They have zero remorse and empathy and often take advantage of empaths due to their own low self-confidence.
Borderline personality disorder- People who suffer from borderline personality disorder often find it incredibly difficult to manage their thoughts, actions, and reactions. They have various moods, ideas of self-image, and behavior. They are often impulsive; thus, creating problems in interpersonal relationships. They experience moods in high definition, whether it is anger, depression, anxiety, etc. These moods tend to last anywhere from a few hours to a few days.
If you visit a psychotherapist, they will tell you that every human being has a little bit of each personality disorder. However, most humans are able to keep it under control. If you believe you or a loved one has a personality disorder, keep reading to find out the 5 signs of a personality disorder.
As human beings, we are naturally distrustful and suspicious especially if we meet someone for the first time. However, if you or someone you know is constantly paranoid about everything, there is a chance you or them are suffering from paranoid personality disorder.
Again, as human beings, we need some alone time. It is necessary and completely understandable. However, if you or someone you know prefers being alone beyond the amount that is healthy, it might be a sign of a personality disorder. ]
If you or someone you know has a very strong disregard for someone’s feelings; it might be a sign of antisocial personality disorder. People with this disorder do not care about anyone else especially when it comes to lying, criticizing or simply putting the other person in danger. Does this sound familiar?
We all know someone or are someone who constantly wants to be the center of attention. Sometimes it is charming and other times, it just gets too much. Excessive need for attention manifests itself into a narcissistic personality disorder. Some clues to look out for are unnecessarily emotional, dramatic, or sexually provocative.
Sometimes clinginess is cute and charming. However, when it becomes too much, it can get annoying. If you or someone you know is overly clingy to the point of it seeming desperate, it could be a sign of a personality disorder.
We hope this article was helpful. If you or someone you know is suffering from a personality disorder, please do not hesitate to get help. If you just wanna vent and need an empathetic ear, we are here. You are important regardless of what you are going through!
Author: Disha Oak
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