Personality disorders

Long-standing patterns of thinking and relating that cause distress: borderline, narcissistic, antisocial, avoidant and more.

• Antisocial personality disorderAntisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is a mental health condition characterized by a long-term pattern of disregarding or violating the rights of others, often with impulsivity, deceitfulness and a lack of remorse. It begins in childhood or adolescence, often as conduct disorder, and is diagnosed only in adults. Terms like sociopath and psychopath are informal and often misused.
• Avoidant personality disorderAvoidant personality disorder (AVPD) is a long-standing pattern of social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy and extreme sensitivity to criticism or rejection. People with an avoidant personality often want close relationships but avoid them out of fear of being judged, embarrassed or turned away. It can be deeply limiting, but therapy can help people build confidence and connection.
• Borderline personality disorder (BPD)Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition marked by intense, rapidly shifting emotions, unstable relationships, an unsteady sense of self and impulsive behavior. In some countries it is called emotionally unstable personality disorder (EUPD). BPD can be very painful, but it is treatable, and many people see significant, lasting improvement.
• Histrionic personality disorderHistrionic personality disorder (HPD) is a personality disorder marked by a long-standing pattern of intense, rapidly shifting emotions and attention-seeking behavior that causes distress or problems in relationships and daily life. It is relatively uncommon, often misunderstood and, like other personality disorders, can improve with therapy.
• Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD)Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a mental health condition marked by a long-standing pattern of grandiosity, a strong need for admiration and difficulty with empathy, often hiding a fragile sense of self-worth. Many people show some narcissistic traits; NPD is diagnosed only when these patterns are pervasive and cause significant problems.