Personality Disorders
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Personality disorders are deep-seated and persistent patterns of behavior and experience that deviate significantly from the expectations of the social environment. Among other things, they influence thinking, feeling, interactions with others, and impulse control.

These patterns usually begin in adolescence or early adulthood and can lead to significant difficulties in daily life, relationships, or professional life.

Typical Characteristics
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• Difficulty managing emotions

• Problems in interpersonal relationships

• Rigid patterns of thinking and behavior

• Unstable self-image or self-esteem

• High impulsivity or emotional fluctuations

• Pronounced anxiety, distrust, or insecurity

• Difficulty adapting one’s behavior flexibly to situations

Personality disorders are classified under codes F60–F69 in the ICD-10.
Examples include:
 

• emotionally unstable personality disorder (borderline type)

• obsessive-compulsive personality disorder

• avoidant personality disorder

• dependent personality disorder

• narcissistic personality disorder

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Prevalence
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Personality disorders are relatively common. It is estimated that about 10% of the population is affected, although the nature and severity of the disorder can vary greatly.

Treatment
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Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is based on the premise that unhealthy patterns of thinking, feeling, and behavior often stem from stressful experiences and learned core beliefs. Over time, these patterns can lead to difficulties in relating to oneself and others.

Treatment goals:
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• Identify and change distressing thought and behavior patterns

• Improve the management of emotions

• Strengthen interpersonal skills

• Reduce impulsivity and self-harming behavior

• Develop a more stable self-image and self-esteem

• Learn new coping strategies for everyday life

• Improve social relationships

• Promote long-term stability and relapse prevention