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If your thoughts, moods, or behaviors disrupt interpersonal relationships or your career, a personality disorder could be the underlying cause. At Essential Mental Healthcare, PLLC, in Chandler, Arizona, and Boise, Idaho, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner Frances Spink, DNP, MSN, MBA, PMHNP-BC, treats an array of mental health disorders to enhance relationships and your overall quality of life. Schedule an in-person or telepsychiatry evaluation by phone or request one online today.
What are personality disorders?
Personality disorders affect your behavior when relating to other people. They often cause distress, impairing your ability to thrive professionally and personally. The 10 common personality disorders each come with unique symptoms and characteristics.
What are the different types of personality disorders?
Personality disorders include:
- Schizoid personality disorder: detachment or disinterest in relationships
- Schizotypal personality disorder: intense discomfort related to close relationships
- Paranoid personality disorder: paranoia and mistrust of other people
- Borderline personality disorder: problems with emotional regulation and relationships
- Antisocial personality disorder: a lack of respect for other people and social norms
- Narcissistic personality disorder: a perceived superiority with an excessive need for praise
- Histrionic personality disorder: a distorted self-image with unstable emotions
- Dependent personality disorder: the need to be cared for by others
- Avoidant personality disorder: feeling inadequate and a fear of being rejected
- Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder: perfectionism and constant need for control
Seek help from Essential Mental Healthcare, PLLC, if you or a loved one has signs of a personality disorder.
What are the risk factors for personality disorders?
Many personality disorders begin in the teenage years, though antisocial personality disorder is typically diagnosed by age 11.
Risk factors for personality disorders include:
- Brain changes
- Family history of mental health conditions
- Verbal abuse
- Childhood trauma
About 9% of adults in the United States have a form of personality disorder. Antisocial personality disorder and borderline personality disorder are the most common.
How does my provider diagnose a personality disorder?
Diagnosing a personality disorder at Essential Mental Healthcare, PLLC, involves an in-person or telepsychiatry evaluation with Dr. Spink. She discusses your medical history, symptoms, mood, emotions, thoughts, medications, and behaviors. The practice uses GeneSight® genetic testing to prescribe a medicine that best matches your genetic makeup.
How are personality disorders treated?
Essential Mental Healthcare, PLLC, provides psychotherapy, medication management, lifestyle recommendations, and different combinations of treatments depending on your needs.
Dr. Spink uses cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and other forms of psychotherapy to help you adopt healthier thoughts and behaviors.
Healthy habits, including regular exercise, nutritious eating, and stress reduction, are also vital.
See Dr. Spink once weekly or as needed for in-person or virtual therapy sessions. She follows up to ensure that your treatment works effectively.
Call Essential Mental Healthcare, PLLC, or use the online booking feature to schedule an in-person or telepsychiatry evaluation today.