Signs and Symptoms
Common Signs and Symptoms of Personality Disorders
Personality disorders can look different for everyone, but there are some signs that often appear again and again. You might notice:
- Ongoing tension in relationships — feeling close to people one day and distant the next
- Intense emotions that change quickly and feel impossible to control
- Difficulty managing stress or adapting to life’s changes
- Avoidance of others or a deep fear of being abandoned
- Impulsive choices that cause regret or shame later
- A shaky sense of self — not always knowing who you are or what you want
Sometimes, people know something feels off but can’t quite explain it. They might blame themselves or think they’re “too emotional.” But what’s really happening is that the brain has learned certain patterns of coping — ones that may have helped in the past but are no longer working. With therapy, those patterns can be unlearned and replaced with healthier ones.