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Personality disorders

All of us have a unique personality. It’s the pattern of thoughts, feelings, behaviours and ways of relating to others and the world that makes one person different from another. There are many ways to understand personality, and many different theories about personality traits and personality types.

For example, some people are more extroverted and prefer the company of others, while others are introverted and enjoy being alone. Some people are more emotional, while others are calmer. Some people enjoy new experiences while others prefer to stick to familiar things. All these differences are part of diversity and help us make sense of the world and our role in it.

The term personality disorders refers to long-term patterns of thinking, behaviour and emotion that cause distress and make it difficult to function every day. People with personality disorders find it hard to change their behaviour or adapt to different situations. They may have trouble sustaining a job or forming positive relationships with others. Below, you can find trustworthy information, including online programs, about personality disorders such as borderline personality disorder and narcissistic personality disorder.

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Personality disorders: an overview

Personality disorder is a long-term pattern of behaviour causing distress and affecting daily life. Learn about symptoms and treatment options here.

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Antisocial personality disorder

People with antisocial personality disorder are sometimes called 'psychopaths'. They tend to disregard the law or other people’s rights.

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Borderline personality disorder (BPD)

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a mental health disorder affecting people's thoughts and behaviours, making it difficult to cope with life. F...

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Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD)

People with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) may appear arrogant, with an inflated self-image and disregard for the feelings of others. Find ou...

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Dissociative identity disorder

Dissociative identity disorder, previously known as multiple personality disorder, causes people to feel as though they have multiple distinct persona...

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Avoidant Personality Disorder (AVPD)

People with avoidant personality disorder appear shy and timid. They avoid people and situations because they fear negative judgement by others.

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Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Complex PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop in people who have been through prolonged and repeated trauma, particularly in childhood.

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Histrionic personality disorder

People with histrionic personality disorder can seem highly dramatic and approval seeking, with a desire to be the centre of attention.

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