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Personality Disorders

Symptoms and treatment of borderline, narcissistic, and antisocial personality disorders.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Psikiyatri department. Book Appointment →

What is Personality Disorders?

Personality disorders are persistent, rigid, and maladaptive patterns of perceiving and interpreting oneself, others, and events. These patterns manifest across various settings and persist over a long time, causing serious problems in relationships and work life.

According to DSM-5, the 10 personality disorders are classified into 3 clusters: Cluster A (odd/eccentric: paranoid, schizoid, schizotypal), Cluster B (dramatic: borderline, narcissistic, antisocial, histrionic), and Cluster C (anxious/avoidant: obsessive-compulsive, avoidant, dependent).

Borderline personality disorder is characterized by extreme emotional fluctuations, fear of abandonment, and self-harm behaviors. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is one of the most effective evidence-based treatments for this group.

Symptoms

Instability in interpersonal relationships and intense conflicts
Emotional dysregulation and rapid mood shifts
Extreme black-and-white perception of self and others
Impulsive and risky behaviors
Identity disturbance and feelings of emptiness
Fear of abandonment and intense relationship dependency

Risk Factors

Childhood trauma, abuse, or neglect
Unstable or unpredictable family behavior
Genetic predisposition
Early loss or separation
Boundary violations and chronicity of emotional trauma

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When relationships are stuck in a destructive cycle
  • Urgently if there is self-harm or a suicide attempt
  • When daily functioning, work, and social life have been seriously impaired for a long time
  • When co-occurring depression or substance use is present

Treatment Methods

01
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) — first-line for borderline
02
Schema therapy and MBT (mentalization-based therapy)
03
Individual psychotherapy (requires long-term work)
04
Medications for symptom management (mood stabilizers, antipsychotics)
05
Group therapy and skill-building groups
06
Crisis-management plan and safety contract

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Psikiyatri department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.