What is a Personality Disorder?
Early signs of personality disorders, also called conduct disorders, begin to show in teenage years or young adulthood. People with personality disorders are unable to manage their thoughts and actions, and will act out or behave in a way that is not considered “normal” by others. According to the Mental Health Foundation, there are three categories of personality disorders: suspicious (paranoid, schizoid, and schizotypal personality disorders); emotional and impulsive (antisocial, borderline, histrionic, and narcissistic personality disorders); and anxious (avoidant, dependent and obsessive compulsive personality disorders). The causes of personality disorders is not fully known but possible causes include childhood trauma, such as rape, assault, or parental neglect.
Signs and Symptoms
Signs and symptoms will vary depending on which personality disorder a teen is dealing with, but some things to look out for include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Paranoia
- Change in behavior
- Erratic behavior
- Obsessive compulsions
- Irritability
Treatment and Management
There are various forms of therapy used to treat and manage personality disorders, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, which helps the individual become mindful and aware of their actions and behaviors. Medications are also available and can be administered by a doctor. People with personality disorders often have more than one mental or physical illness, as well as personality disorder, so it is best to consult a physician about symptoms or concerns.
Feature image Olga Ferrer Saladié
