Personality disorder is a term which describes a set of problems that cause difficulties to a person and/or those around them over a prolonged period of time.

Those using our service will often be aware that they experience these problems and may have assumed nothing can be done or sought help in various places without finding much that makes a significant difference.

Many of these problems affect relationships and the ability to cope with stress.  Feelings that can be hard to handle may lead to unstable mood, periods of depression or anxiety, and desperate attempts to feel better, including self-destructive behaviours, drink or drugs, or difficulties controlling temper.

Other problems can include anxiety being around other people, feeling unable to cope, having difficulty getting along with people and coming across as rigid or distant.

Although it is rare to experience all of these problems, those engaging with our service will often struggle with a number of them.  They may also find it hard to maintain a tenancy, employment and/or relationships.

If these problems have been experienced on a long term basis, they are often referred to as personality traits, as they have become established ways of interacting, being and feeling.  If problems like this have a significant negative effect on someone’s life, they may suffer from a personality disorder.

Not everyone who is treated in the Complex Needs Service suffers from a personality disorder, but everyone in the service has long term problems of the sort described above.

For more information on personality disorder please see the following links:

• Royal College of Psychiatrists
• Mind