UW Health psychiatrists and psychologists address personality disorders.
What are Personality Disorders?
Personality disorders are a group of traits which are deeply rooted and unchanging. Improper behavior patterns can cause hurt and have an effect on the way you function. People with personality disorders often do not take responsibility for their own lives and feelings. They tend to blame others and have problems relating to others. A person with this disorder can be bright, intelligent, warm and friendly. For some, it is only when a stressful situation occurs that the disorder flares.
What Causes Personality Disorders?
The exact cause is unknown. It may involve a disorder of the nervous system, chromosomal factors or learned behavior responses.
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of this mental illness may vary greatly and can differ depending on the type of disorder.
Suspicious and mistrustful
Lack of desire to have close relationships or pleasant activities
Disregard for others
Avoidance of intimacy
Wanting others to make decisions for them
- Preoccupied with orderliness, perfectionism
People with this type of disorder usually do not seek treatment, yet there are treatments that may help.
The treatment may include:
Individual group therapy