BSc (Medunsa), MBCHB (Medunsa), FC Psych (SA) PR No. 1075837 MP No. 0683361
CONDITIONS
PERSONALITY DISORDERS
What are personality disorders?
Personality disorders affect the way you think and interact with others. They are often characterised by obsessiveness relating to your mood and behaviour. Usually, these disorders affect the way you treat yourself and others. There are many personality disorders that can seriously affect your social life and mental wellbeing. If you suffer from a personality disorder, it is important to seek the help of mental health professional like Dr Sebothoma for treatment.
People with personality disorders typically experience:
- Emotional instability
- Extreme mood swings
- Impulsive behaviour
- Antisocial behaviour
- Compulsive behaviour
- Aggression and irritability
- Narcissism
- Depression and anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
- Self-harm
- Isolation
Personality disorders are thought to be caused by either neurological problems or early childhood trauma like abuse. There are several types of personality disorders that can be categorised according to different behavioural factors such as eccentric tendencies, emotional inconsistencies and anxious behaviour. These disorders can leave you feeling suspicious of other people, disinterested in socialising or anxious about yourself and others. You can also feel self-obsessed and over-confident or even submissive too.
Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OPCD), antisocial personality disorder (ASPD), avoidant personality disorder (AvPD), schizotypal personality disorder (STPD), narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and borderline personality disorder (BPD) are all personality disorders that can impact your mood and the way you feel about others.
What might be needed or done?
Though it’s normal to experience different emotions throughout your day-to-day life, extreme changes in your mood or obsessive behaviour can negatively affect your personal and professional relationships. That’s why it’s important to seek treatment from a psychiatrist like Dr Sebothoma.
To treat any personality disorder you may have, Dr Sebothoma will first discuss your symptoms and history with you to better understand the factors affecting your mental health. This will help Dr Sebothoma decide on the best medical or physiological treatment for your personality disorder, which may include medication and counselling, or a combination of both.
With Dr Sebothoma’s help, you can learn how to master your personality disorder and overcome mood swings to maintain healthy relationships with yourself and those around you.
