It can be challenging to differentiate between personality quirks or disorders, but there is a distinct difference. Personality quirks are usually harmless and may even be endearing traits that make up part of an individual’s identity. In contrast, personality disorders are more severe conditions that significantly impact one’s life and relationships. If you think you or someone you know may be struggling with a personality disorder, seeking help from a qualified mental health professional is vital.
Recovery Ranch treats clients with substance use disorders and mental health concerns, including personality disorders. With a multidisciplinary team of medical and clinical professionals, we offer customized care plans for each client to ensure the best possible outcomes. Contact us at 1.844.876.7680 to learn more about our personality disorder treatment center and how we can promote wellness.
What Is a Personality Disorder?
What is a personality disorder? Personality disorders are a group of diagnosable mental health conditions that involve the long-term development of dysfunctional personality traits. The specific characteristics involved depend on the type of disorder affecting a person.
You may wonder how the personality disorder definition differs from the everyday personality quirks that appear in many people from all walks of life. The critical difference is how those quirks or traits affect one’s ability to maintain a functional daily routine and experience a sense of well-being.
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) currently recognizes ten specific personality disorders, which are:
- Paranoid personality disorder (PPD)
- Schizoid personality disorder (SPD)
- Schizotypal personality disorder (STPD)
- Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD)
- Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
- Histrionic personality disorder (HPD)
- Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD)
- Avoidant personality disorder (AVPD)
- Dependent personality disorder (DPD)
- Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCD)
Each can produce anywhere from six to nine personality traits that substantially interfere with daily function. For example, people with paranoid personality disorder may experience deep-seated suspicion and distrust of others, a misguided belief in other people’s deceptive or harmful intent, and outbursts of hostility or anger when insulted or disrespected. Traits found in people with borderline personality disorder may include frequent involvement in highly volatile social or personal relationships, an inability to develop a consistent sense of self, and participation in self-harming or blatantly suicidal behaviors.
Personality Quirks Vs. Personality Disorders
Virtually everyone has traits that at least some people will find unpleasant, off-putting, or undesirable. The critical factor in determining personality quirks or disorders is the same thing that distinguishes all mental illnesses: a significant decline in a person’s ability to function without a profound sense of personal distress.
It’s important to note that, in isolation, many of the symptoms of personality disorders don’t differ all that much from the personality traits found in people who generally experience good mental health. Doctors and researchers acknowledge the lack of a clear threshold marking the transition between most symptoms and mental or emotional wellness. Instead, the emphasis falls on how several traits affect a person. That’s why doctors can only diagnose a personality disorder when multiple symptoms appear simultaneously or within a short period.
The Personality Disorder Treatment Center at The Ranch Can Help
Seeking treatment at Recovery Ranch Tennessee can give individuals struggling with personality disorders the support they need to understand their condition and cope with their symptoms. We offer various services, including medication management, family therapy, nutrition counseling, and recreational activities to promote mental and physical health.
If you or someone you love is struggling with a personality disorder, please contact us at 1.844.876.7680 or complete our online form. Our knowledgeable staff is here to provide the resources needed to begin your journey toward wellness.
