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Personality Disorders

Each person has a unique personality that consists of various traits. These traits influence how people understand and relate to the world around them. In an ideal situation, your personality allows you to adapt to your changing environment, leading to healthier relationships and better coping strategies. However, if you have a personality disorder, you’re likely to be less adaptive, which can instead lead to rigidity and unhealthy coping.

For people with personality disorders, it’s not uncommon to misuse drugs or alcohol, deal with angry outbursts, or have trouble connecting with others. Fortunately, personality disorders can be effectively treated at Recovery Cove in Easton, PA. We have a dedicated Mental Health Program that addresses personality disorders, along with co-occurring conditions like anxiety, depression, or substance use.

What Are Personality Disorders?

Personality disorders involve long-term patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that differ from societal norms and cause distress. These patterns affect how people view themselves and others, their emotional responses, interpersonal relationships, and impulse control. Personality disorders typically begin in the teenage or young adult years, with symptoms worsening during times of stress. The three main types of personality disorders are:

Cluster A: Odd or Eccentric Behavior

Cluster A disorders are characterized by unusual or erratic behavior and include paranoid personality disorder, schizoid personality disorder, and schizotypal personality disorder. People with Cluster A disorders tend to be detached in their relationships and often feel suspicious and distrustful of others.

Cluster B: Dramatic, Emotional, or Erratic Behavior

Cluster B disorders involve big, intense emotions. They include antisocial personality disorder, borderline personality disorder, histrionic personality disorder, and narcissistic personality disorder. People sometimes view individuals with Cluster B disorders as being emotionally driven and attention-seeking, leading to problems in relationships.

Cluster C: Anxious or Fearful Behavior

People with Cluster C disorders tend to be anxious and sensitive. Due to this, they often rely on others for emotional and decision-making support. They may also demand order, perfection, and control. Cluster C disorders include avoidant personality disorder, dependent personality disorder, and obsessive compulsive personality disorder.

What Causes Personality Disorders?

There is no single cause of personality disorders. Instead, they are thought to stem from a combination of genetics, environment, and brain functioning. For instance, having a family history of mental health issues can raise your risk of developing a personality disorder. Childhood trauma, neglect, or abuse are also contributing factors, as they can cause changes to occur in the brain.

Additionally, variations in brain chemistry and structure can also play a role. For example, in people with borderline personality disorder, the parts of the brain responsible for emotions, behavior, and decision making may be smaller or have unusual activity levels. It’s also possible that certain personality traits, such as impulsivity, can increase the risk of developing a personality disorder.

Signs and Symptoms

The symptoms of personality disorders vary depending on the disorder, but you can expect some general symptoms such as:

  • Difficulty forming or maintaining relationships
  • Extreme emotional reactions or lack of emotion
  • Distorted self image
  • Persistent feelings of emptiness or dissatisfaction
  • Inappropriate, impulsive, or risky behavior

If these patterns interfere with daily functioning or cause distress, it’s essential to seek professional help. Recovery Cove has a Mental Health Program that specifically addresses personality disorders. We will conduct a full assessment and put together a cohesive treatment plan to ease your symptoms and improve your life. With the right support, you can do very well in your everyday life, regardless of the personality disorder you are experiencing.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Only a healthcare professional can diagnose a personality disorder. They make their diagnosis after a comprehensive evaluation that includes a physical and psychological assessment. The physical evaluation rules out other issues that could be contributing to your symptoms, while the psychological evaluation determines which personality disorder you have and the severity of your symptoms. Once you receive your diagnosis, a detailed treatment plan will be created to address your needs, challenges, and goals.

Treating personality disorders requires a comprehensive approach. These are complex disorders that respond best to therapy and medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective therapy that focuses on identifying and changing harmful thought patterns. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is especially effective for borderline personality disorder, helping with emotional regulation and interpersonal skills.

Support groups can also provide another layer of support, connecting you to others who are dealing with similar challenges. While there are no specific medications that treat personality disorders, antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotics may be used to manage symptoms. Your treatment plan can change over time based on your needs and progress.

Woman speaking to her therapist

Living with a Personality Disorder

People often worry that a personality disorder will consume their life, but these conditions can be effectively managed with the right support. In fact, it’s untreated personality disorders that make life challenging; acknowledging your symptoms, seeking support, and being willing to try various therapies and medications are what will help you regain control over your life.

It’s also important to build a strong support network, practice self-care and stress management techniques, and stay committed to therapy. Recovery Cove’s Mental Health Program has everything you need to manage your personality disorder. You will receive a comprehensive treatment plan and a dedicated treatment team that ensures your needs are always being met. You will also be welcomed and supported by our staff and other members in our program.

Treatment for Personality Disorders in Easton, PA

If you or a loved one is struggling to find balance in life due to a personality disorder, reach out to Recovery Cove for support. We have had success in helping individuals rebuild their lives through therapy, coping skills, and strong support networks. No one has to face this journey alone—seeking professional help is a sign of strength and the first step toward lasting change. Contact Recovery Cove at (818) 232-7220 to learn more about our Mental Health Program.

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  • "Welcoming, kindness, and professionalism is what you will receive from Recovery Cove. I am extremely grateful to the whole Recovery Cove team for guiding me through my recovery process. Outpatient therapy is where the real work is done and they have equipped me the skills I need to continue on my sobriety journey. Thank you so much!"
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  • "I came to Recovery Cove after a relapse from 10 years of sobriety. I was skeptical because I had been to many other centers and 90% of them were less than and I walked away with nothing. Recovery Cove is different. I was immediately impressed with the facilities but what has really impressed me was the quality of the counselor. They really care and have amazing knowledge. They are kind yet will keep you in line. If you become willing to listen to them and participate in the program, success is there for the taking. You will not regret your choice to come Recovery Cove. I would give them an A+!!"
  • "My experience at recovery cove was life changing. The staff made my transition back into the real world feel safe and comfortable. The entire staff was welcoming and open-minded while providing an environment I feel willing to open up in. Christine was my therapist - she was a game changer in my recovery and I appreciate every single interaction I had with her. I’m now hopeful for my future & my recovery journey with a big thanks to christine & the entire recovery cove staff"

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Medical Disclaimer: Nothing on this Website is intended to be taken as medical advice. Before making any decisions on your physical or mental health, please consult your doctor. The staff at Recovery Cove will work with our patients on a custom diagnosis and care plan. Specific medical advice will be provided to our patients while in our care.

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