Personality Disorders

A personality disorder is a type of mental disorder where someone can have rigid and/or unhealthy patterns of behaving, thinking, functioning or relating to others.

Support & Treatment

Certain types of therapy such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy may be useful for individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder. Therapies like DBT often focus on skills like mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness to help give people the tools needed to manage their symptoms more effectively. Finding a local DBT therapist or group may be beneficial for some people with personality disorders.

Personality Disorders & Kink

Individuals with personality disorders can have a wide range of interests and preferences, including those related to kink. It's important to differentiate between consensual kink activities and behaviors stemming from the symptoms of a personality disorder. Proper communication, understanding, and boundaries are crucial to ensuring any kink-related activities are safe, consensual, and beneficial for all parties involved

Personality Disorders & Sex

Sexual intimacy can be influenced by one's personality and, at times, their mental health. For individuals with personality disorders, their symptoms might affect their approach to and experience of sex. It's crucial for partners to communicate openly, set boundaries, and understand that certain behaviors or fears might be linked to the disorder. Professional counseling can help in navigating these complexities.

Personality Disorders & Relationships

Relationships can be challenging for everyone, but individuals with personality disorders may face unique struggles rooted in their patterns of thinking and behavior. These challenges can manifest in various ways, such as difficulties with trust, attachment, or communication. Both parties in the relationship can benefit from understanding the nature of personality disorders, seeking therapy or counseling, and practicing open communication to foster a healthy and supportive bond.

Personality Disorders & Identity

A person's sense of identity can be influenced by their personality and mental health. Those with personality disorders may grapple with understanding or asserting their identity due to their ingrained patterns of thinking and behavior. Recognizing these challenges and seeking professional guidance can help in building self-awareness and a strong, positive sense of self.

Resources

USA

• National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder (NEA.BPD) While specific to BPD, this organization offers resources that can be beneficial for understanding relationship challenges posed by personality disorders.
• NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness). Offers information on personality disorders and resources for therapy and support.
• National Coalition for Sexual Freedom (NCSF). This organization works to ensure that consenting adults can express their sexuality freely. They have resources and guidelines to differentiate between consensual kinks and potentially harmful behaviors.
• AASECT (American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors, and Therapists). They offer resources and trained professionals who can help guide individuals and couples through issues related to sexuality and mental health.

Worldwide

• PsychCentral. This website provides a plethora of articles, quizzes, and resources on various mental health topics, including how personality disorders affect relationships.