Your personality is your unique way of thinking, responding emotionally, and behaving in daily life. Most people have personalities that allow them to function well within their society. However, some individuals have personality traits that interfere with their daily functioning. If your teen exhibits these kinds of traits, they may have a diagnosable personality disorder. To recover from this disorder’s effects, they may need help from a specialized adolescent mental health treatment program.
Types of Personality Disorders
Personality disorders form their category of mental health conditions, encompassing a total of 10 different disorders:
- Borderline personality disorder
- Antisocial personality disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive personality disorder
- Histrionic personality disorder
- Avoidant personality disorder
- Narcissistic personality disorder
- Paranoid personality disorder
- Dependent personality disorder
- Schizoid personality disorder
- Schizotypal personality disorder
Each type of personality disorder produces its distinct symptoms. For example, antisocial personality disorder is characterized by frequent lying, disregard for others’ rights, and impulsive behavior.
Diagnosing Personality Disorders in Teenagers
Teenagers’ personalities are relatively fluid, with moods, thoughts, and behaviors varying from day to day. Because of this variability, doctors typically avoid diagnosing personality disorders in adolescents. However, some teens exhibit clear signs of these disorders and may receive a formal diagnosis.
Personality Disorder Treatment for Teens
Early treatment of personality disorders is crucial to avoid severe life disruptions and potentially extreme consequences.
Similarities Between Teens and Adults
In many ways, personality disorder treatment for teens resembles treatment for adults. Typically, the recovery plan does not include medication but focuses on various forms of psychotherapy, such as:
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): Improves tolerance of unpleasant mental states and fosters emotional control.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Helps develop thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that promote stable mental health.
- Psychodynamic therapy: Assists in understanding thoughts and emotions.
- Psychoeducation: Educates you and your child about the causes and effects of personality disorders.
Differences Between Teens and Adults
Teens often require more structured recovery plans due to the demands of attending school while undergoing treatment. Additionally, teenagers may have a greater need for family therapy, which helps resolve family conflicts, improve communication, and create a supportive home environment.
Checking for Additional Mental Health Issues
Teens with personality disorders may also have other significant mental health concerns. A thorough screening process is essential to detect and treat any co-occurring conditions alongside the personality disorder.
Find a Personality Disorder Treatment Program in Lincoln, Nebraska
Do you think your teen may have a personality disorder? Consult the mental health professionals at Imagine Lincoln. We can help determine the presence of severe personality issues and diagnose the specific condition affecting your child.
If you need a teen personality disorder treatment program in Lincoln, NE, Imagine Lincoln is here to help. We specialize in treating teens affected by these disorders and offer customized plans that support lasting recovery. Contact us today for more information.