Treatment for Personality Disorders in Atlanta, GA
Personality Disorders
The term “personality disorder” refers to a group of conditions defined by the fact that the patient struggles with their ability to perceive and interact with their reality in a healthy way. If you’re living with a personality disorder, you may have extreme difficulty in your relationships, often becoming frustrated with others and even yourself.
Having a personality disorder doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with your personality – it means you’re struggling, and that there is treatment available to help you think and behave in a healthier way. At Foundation Psychiatry, we’re proud to provide comprehensive personality disorders treatment for patients throughout the Atlanta area. Our well-rounded approach utilizes both therapy and pharmacology and our board-certified psychiatry team is available to take appointments now.
If you or a loved one is struggling with symptoms of personality disorders, it’s important to know that treatment is available. If you’re ready to address your symptoms and receive care from the top psychiatrist Atlanta has to offer, contact Foundation Psychiatry to schedule your appointment today.
Accurate Personality Disorder Diagnoses
Types and Symptoms of Personality Disorder
Personality disorders come in a variety of types, which can be grouped into “clusters.” Cluster A personality disorders are defined by “eccentric” thinking or behavior that others may perceive as odd. Cluster B personality disorders are defined by highly emotional, unpredictable behavior, while cluster C personality disorders are defined by fearful, anxious behaviors.
Cluster A personality disorders include:
Paranoid personality disorder, in which a person may be pervasively distrustful and paranoid
Schizoid personality disorder, in which a person may have a perceived lack of interest in others and difficulty expressing emotion
Schizotypal personality disorder, in which a person may have inappropriate social responses and unusual perceptual experiences like seeing “hidden messages” or hearing voices.
Cluster B personality disorders include:
Antisocial personality disorder, in which a person seems to have little regard for other people
Borderline personality disorder, in which a person feels intense fear of abandonment and a fragile self image
Histrionic personality disorder, in which a person compulsively seeks attention
Narcissistic personality disorder, in which a person shows extreme arrogance and self-importance
Cluster C personality disorders include:
Avoidant personality disorder, in which someone is extremely shy and fearful of social situations
Dependent personality disorder, in which someone severely lacks self confidence and may excessively rely on others
Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, in which a person has extreme standards of perfection and may be preoccupied with order and rules
Therapeutic Treatment for Personality Disorders
Psychotherapy for Personality Disorders
Personality disorders aren’t a disease you suddenly catch: they develop over time along with your personality. In most cases, a personality disorder develops as a result of a stressful or even traumatic environment, and may also become more likely if your parents or relatives have struggled with mental illness as well.
Patients who undergo psychotherapy have a greater chance at overcoming a personality disorder in the long term. While medications can help provide the proper balance of chemicals that affect the mind and body, psychotherapy helps a patient truly investigate the source of their behavior in order to understand it and make changes. Developing self-awareness allows patients to discover healthier coping methods so they can create an organic and long lasting sense of fulfillment, happiness and healing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is obsessive-compulsive personality disorder the same as OCD?
No. Obsessive-compulsive disorder is an anxiety disorder, whereas an obsessive-compulsive personality is rooted deeper in a person’s psyche and informs their behavior rather than serving as an inappropriate response to stress.
Can medication help treat a personality disorder?
While medication is not the answer to the underlying cause of a personality disorder, it can help alleviate some of its symptoms. Many people who live with a personality disorder also struggle with comorbid mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, which can be treated with the use of medication. Medicating these conditions may even improve the outcome of one’s therapy.
Will antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications be covered by insurance?
While the cost and copay of you or your loved one’s medication will depend on your prescription and your insurance provider, most providers do cover generic versions of common antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications. If you have concerns about your coverage, reach out to our team, and we’ll discuss your options with you.
How can I get started with the best psychiatrist near me?
At Foundation Psychiatry, accessible mental health care is an important part of our mission. That’s why we make it simple to schedule an appointment with us. Just use our online scheduling tool to select a time that works for you, and we’ll reach out to finalize your appointment as quickly as possible.