Treatment for a personality disorder
Treatment for a personality disorder usually involves a talking therapy. This is where the person talks to a therapist to get a better understanding of their own thoughts, feelings and behaviours.
It will last for at least 3 months, but can often last longer depending on the severity of the condition and other problems the person may have.
As well as listening and discussing important issues with the person, the therapist may identify strategies to resolve problems and, if necessary, help them change their attitudes and behaviour.
Therapeutic communities
Therapeutic communities (TCs) are an intensive form of group therapy in which the experience of having a personality disorder is explored in depth.
The person attends at least 1 day a week and sometimes even 5 full days a week.
TCs have been shown to be effective for mild to moderate personality disorders, but require a high level of commitment.
Medication
Medication may be prescribed to treat problems associated with a personality disorder, such as depression, anxiety or psychotic symptoms.
For example, moderate to severe symptoms of depression might be treated with a type of antidepressant called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).
Read more about the treatment for borderline personality disorder and antisocial personality disorder.
You can also visit the Royal College of Psychiatrists website, and charity websites Mind and Rethink Mental Illness for their patient information on treatment for other types of personality disorder.
Symptoms Of A Personality Disorder 