Personality Disorders
Unlike other mental illnesses, Personality Disorders are not as heavily influenced by biochemical imbalances. Rather, these disorders emerge as the product of a patient’s perceptions of themselves, others, and the world around them. Personality disorder sufferers may have difficulty relating to themselves and others; some have difficulty maintaining stable relationships for more than a short period of time. When greater self-awareness is reached, the healing process may begin.
Borderline Personality Disorder
Borderline Personality Disorder is characterized by intense fear of abandonment and difficulty maintaining healthy relationships. Other symptoms may include emotional volatility, fits of anger over real or imagined slights, a loss of sense of self, and chronic self-harming behavior including self-mutilation and suicide attempts. Those who suffer from Borderline Personality Disorder may find themselves forming an intense attachment to another person within a matter of days, only to discard the relationship weeks, or months later over a trivial matter. If left untreated, the damaging effects of this disorder can undermine personal fulfillment, as well as, family and communal bonds.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Sufferers of Narcissistic Personality Disorder often have high expectations of themselves, and they are confident in their ability to achieve success no matter what obstacles come their way. Indeed, it is admirable to cultivate such a mindset when it is balanced with compassion and integrity. Unfortunately, the outlook of those diagnosed with Narcissistic Personality Disorder is based on a perceived superiority over others. Narcissistic personalities feel that praise, success, and preferential treatment are due to them because they are more important than others. Such persons are often willing to sacrifice the well-being of themselves and others in order to obtain their desires. When the expected privileges and gifts fail to materialize, those who suffer from this disorder can feel emotionally shattered.
Antisocial Personality Disorder
Antisocial Personality Disorder is a much publicized disorder with symptoms including chronic dishonesty, aggressive and violent behavior, poor impulse control, lack of remorse for wrongdoing, and disregard or contempt for social norms. Despite the frequency with which this disorder is discussed in newspapers and on television, this disorder is often difficult to diagnose and individuals with these dynamics are less likely to seek treatment. If you have been diagnosed with one of the disorders listed above, or another personality disorder, and you are interested in learning more about treatment options, contact our office to set up an appointment today.