Millions of people in the United States live with mental health conditions. Mental health conditions can affect a person’s functioning and quality of life. Comprehensive treatment can help people manage the symptoms of a mental health disorder.
Different disorders require different treatments. Understanding mental health issues can help people get the right type of treatment.
This article will explore the difference between personality disorders and other mental health conditions. You will learn:
- What a personality disorder is
- Other common mental health disorders
- The differences between a personality and mental health disorder
- How to treat personality disorder and other mental health conditions
- Where to find comprehensive mental health treatment
If you or someone you love needs mental health treatment, you are not alone. Contact the Agape Behavioral Center specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is a Personality Disorder?
Your personality is the combination of thoughts, behaviors, and feelings that set you apart from others. Mental health experts believe a person’s personality depends on genetics and life experiences.
A personality disorder is a mental health condition that impacts how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. The symptoms of personality disorder can affect a person’s daily functioning and quality of life.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), there are ten personality disorders. These ten disorders fall into three categories: Cluster A, B, or C. Each “cluster’ has similar traits.
Cluster A
Schizotypal personality disorder
Symptoms of schizotypal personality disorder include eccentric behaviors, difficulty expressing emotions, and social difficulties.
Schizoid personality disorder
Symptoms of schizoid personality disorder include avoidance of social interactions and relationships. People with this disorder may prefer complete isolation.
Paranoid personality disorder
People with paranoid personality disorder may be excessively suspicious of other people. They typically avoid forming relationships with others.
Cluster B
Antisocial personality disorder
The symptoms of antisocial personality disorder include a lack of regard for others and impulsiveness. It may also include chronic dishonesty and a willingness to lie to get ahead.
Histrionic personality disorder
People with histrionic personality disorder may feel anxious or uncomfortable if they are not the center of attention. They may have rapid mood swings and engage in attention-seeking behaviors.
Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
The symptoms of BPD include negative self-image and rapid mood swings. People with BPD may have an intense fear of abandonment and a pattern of unstable relationships.
Cluster C
Avoidant personality disorder
The symptoms of avoidant personality disorder include not feeling “good enough” and sensitivity to criticism. People may feel deeply uncomfortable in social situations.
Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder
People with obsessive-compulsive personality disorder typically think in “black and white” terms. They may find it challenging to relax or work compulsively. Others may see them as rigid. It can be challenging for people with this condition to have healthy relationships with others.
Dependent personality disorder
People with dependent personality disorder may feel helpless or anxious if they have to take care of themselves. They may seek reassurance from others about unimportant daily matters.
The symptoms of these types of personality disorders are different than “normal” personality traits. People with personality disorders often struggle to have healthy relationships or take care of themselves. People with personality disorders can learn to manage their symptoms, but it is not possible to cure these conditions.
Agape Behavioral Center accepts many private insurance plans
What is a Mental Disorder?
People may use the term “mental disorder” to describe a mental health disorder or mental health condition. According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), mental health disorders involve changes in a person’s behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. Some common mental health conditions include:
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders
- Bipolar disorder
- Schizophrenia
About half of all people will experience a mental health condition at some point in their lives. Treating a mental health problem typically involves medications, talk therapy, education, and lifestyle changes.
What is the Difference Between a Personality and Mental Disorder?
A personality disorder is a mental health condition. However, there are several differences between these conditions.
First, mental health conditions can occur at any age. They can last a short time or develop into a lifelong condition. Personality disorders usually begin around adolescence and last a lifetime.
Second, symptoms of mental health conditions tend to disrupt normal functioning. They may prevent people from living full lives. Personality disorders may affect some areas of a person’s life, including their relationships and how they think.
Finally, treatment for mental health conditions and personality disorders involves different approaches. People with mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder may take medications to manage their symptoms. Those with personality disorders typically engage in specialized talk therapies to learn how to cope with these conditions.
Mental Illness vs Personality Disorder: How are They Treated?
The way mental health practitioners treat a mental health condition depends on a person’s symptoms. Treatment differs depending on what type of disorder they have. In many cases, people with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions may require medications to reduce symptoms. They may also engage in therapy and lifestyle changes to manage their symptoms.
There are no medications to treat the symptoms of personality disorders. People with personality disorders may engage in education and talk therapy to learn how to cope with their condition. However, some people may also take medications to manage symptoms related to their condition. For example, people may take anti-anxiety medications to manage anxiety related to their personality disorder.
Find Mental Health Treatment Now
If you or someone you love needs mental health treatment, you are not alone. Contact the Agape Behavioral Center specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- American Psychiatric Association (APA): What are Personality Disorders?
- American Psychological Association (APA): Personality Disorders: Theory, Research, and Treatment
- World Health Organization (WHO): Mental disorders
