Adult personality disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by enduring patterns of behavior, thoughts, and emotions that significantly deviate from societal norms and cause distress or impairment in various areas of life. These patterns of behavior and inner experience are typically stable and pervasive, affecting how individuals perceive themselves, relate to others, and navigate the world around them.


Several types of personality disorders are recognized by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). the Three clusters of personality disorders:

1. Cluster A (Odd or Eccentric Behavior):

   - Paranoid Personality Disorder: Characterized by a pervasive distrust and suspicion of others, leading to a guarded and hypersensitive attitude.

   - Schizoid Personality Disorder: Involves a pattern of detachment from social relationships and a limited range of emotional expression.

   - Schizotypal Personality Disorder: Marked by eccentric behaviour, unusual beliefs or magical thinking, and difficulties with social interactions.

2. Cluster B (Dramatic, Emotional, or Erratic Behavior):

   - Antisocial Personality Disorder: Associated with a disregard for the rights of others, a lack of empathy, and a pattern of impulsive and irresponsible behavior.

   - Borderline Personality Disorder: Characterized by unstable self-image, intense and unstable relationships, impulsivity, and emotional dysregulation.

   - Histrionic Personality Disorder: Involves excessive attention-seeking, dramatic behavior, and a need for constant validation and approval.

   - Narcissistic Personality Disorder: Manifests as an exaggerated sense of self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others.

3. Cluster C (Anxious or Fearful Behavior):

   - Avoidant Personality Disorder: Marked by pervasive feelings of inadequacy, hypersensitivity to criticism, and social inhibition.

   - Dependent Personality Disorder: Involves excessive reliance on others for decision-making, fear of abandonment, and difficulty asserting oneself. 

   - Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder: Characterized by perfectionism, rigid adherence to rules and routines, and an excessive focus on order and control. 

It's important that these personality disorders can significantly impact an individual's personal relationships, work functioning, and overall well-being. Treatment for adult personality disorders often involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication (in some cases), and support from mental health professionals. Psychotherapy, such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), or psychodynamic therapy, can help individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms, improve interpersonal skills, and foster emotional regulation. 

At Aura Psychiatric Clinic, we provide comprehensive assessments, accurate diagnoses, and personalized treatment plans for individuals with adult personality disorders. Our experienced clinicians are dedicated to helping individuals navigate their challenges, build resilience, and achieve greater well-being and functional outcomes in their lives.