The symptoms of personality disorders vary dramatically according to type and severity. Paranoid Personality Disorder is characterized by: Generalized mistrust and suspicion of others An extreme reluctance to confide in others Paranoia The consistent misinterpretation of others’ behavior as malicious A preoccupation with finding ‘clues’ to validate fears Schizoid Personality Disorder is characterized by: Indifference to social relationships and relationship avoidance Indifference to praise The expression of a limited range of emotions or the appearance of being emotionally cold and detached A lack of close friends and no desire for close relationships Schizotypal Personality Disorder is characterized by: Disturbing thoughts and behavior Unusual or odd beliefs (aliens, UFOs, etc.) and fears Odd behavior and/or speech Difficulty making/keeping friendships Suspiciousness and/or paranoia Antisocial Personality Disorder is characterized by: Antisocial behavior Disregard for others’ emotions Externalization and minimization of responsibility Deceitfulness Impulsive and risky behavior Hostility and aggression Lack of restraint General discontent Borderline Personality Disorder is characterized by: Heightened reactivity and sensitivity Emotional dysregulation and volatility A tendency towards crisis Self-destructive behavior Difficulty managing slights Feelings of worthlessness and insecurity Impulsivity Impaired social relationships; a pattern of unstable, intense relationships Mood swings Intense fear of abandonment Histrionic Personality Disorder is characterized by: Excessive attention-seeking Intense and dramatic displays of emotion The belief that relationships are closer than they are A high susceptibility to the influence of others Rapidly changing emotions Profound insecurity Narcissistic Personality Disorder is characterized by: A preoccupation with one’s own interests and a disregard for others’ feelings The inability to empathize An excessive need for the praise and admiration of others The inability to handle any criticism A pervasive sense of entitlement Profound insecurity Avoidant Personality Disorder is characterized by: Extreme shyness Self-isolation Excessive fear of ridicule, criticism, and rejection A preoccupation with looking foolish A low threshold for criticism Low self-esteem Dependent Personality Disorder is characterized by: Profound insecurity Emotional dependence on others Excessive people-pleasing behaviors Difficulty being alone Needy and clingy behavior Intense fear of separation and/or abandonment Inability to make decisions without help from others Utter devastation in response to the end of relationships Oversensitivity to criticism Inability to start projects or tasks The tolerance of mistreatment or abuse in order to stay in a relationship Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder is characterized by: An excessive concern with orderliness and excessive attention to detail Perfectionism The need to be in control An excessive devotion to work Difficulty relaxing or enjoying leisure time Overly meticulous planning Although many of these symptoms may be displayed occasionally by healthy, well-adjusted individuals, the intensity and frequency with which they are displayed by those with personality disorders seriously impacts their lives and can harm others. It is possible for people to be diagnosed with multiple personality disorders at once or a personality disorder and another mental health condition, such as depression. Because there is such a wide range of symptoms associated with personality disorders, it is important to seek professional psychiatric help if you suspect you or a loved one might be dealing with this kind of condition. If you’d like to learn more about getting that help at CooperRiis, call us today.