Personality Disorders: Types, Diagnosis, and Treatment – With Dr. Sara Michel Basily

Personality disorders are among the most complex and widespread mental health conditions, often misunderstood by patients and even some professionals.
In this article, Dr. Sara Michel Basily, psychiatrist and behavioral therapy specialist, explains what personality disorders are, how they are classified, diagnosed, and the available treatment options.

 What Are Personality Disorders?

Personality disorders are enduring patterns of thinking, feeling, and behavior that emerge early in life and cause significant distress or impairment in personal, social, or occupational functioning.
They are not simply “bad traits” but clinically recognized mental health conditions requiring professional evaluation and tailored care.

 Types of Personality Disorders (Based on DSM-5)

Personality disorders are grouped into three clusters:

???? Cluster A – Odd or Eccentric

1. Paranoid Personality Disorder
   Persistent suspicion and mistrust of others, with hypersensitivity to criticism.

2. Schizoid Personality Disorder
   Emotional detachment, lack of interest in social relationships.

3. Schizotypal Personality Disorder
   Eccentric behavior, strange thinking patterns, social anxiety.

???? Cluster B – Dramatic, Emotional, or Erratic

1. Borderline Personality Disorder
   Intense mood swings, unstable relationships, impulsivity.

2. Narcissistic Personality Disorder
   Exaggerated sense of self-importance, excessive need for admiration, lack of empathy.

3. Histrionic Personality Disorder
   Attention-seeking, emotional overreaction, superficial charm.

4. Antisocial Personality Disorder
   Disregard for rules and others’ rights, manipulative or criminal behavior, lack of remorse.

???? Cluster C – Anxious or Fearful

1. Avoidant Personality Disorder
   Social inhibition, feelings of inadequacy, fear of rejection.

2. Dependent Personality Disorder
   Excessive need to be taken care of, difficulty making decisions alone.

3. Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD)
   Preoccupation with order, perfectionism, and control.

 How Are Personality Disorders Diagnosed?

According to Dr. Sara Michel Basily, proper diagnosis involves:

• Comprehensive clinical interviews

• Standardized psychological assessments based on DSM-5 criteria

• Evaluation of personal, social, and emotional background

• In some cases, input from family or close contacts is used to gain a broader perspective

 How Are Personality Disorders Treated?

1. Psychotherapy:

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Especially effective for borderline personality disorder

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps reframe harmful thought and behavior patterns

• Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores deep emotional and relational roots

2. Medication:

Used to manage associated symptoms like anxiety, depression, or aggression—not the core disorder itself.

3. Family Support and Psychoeducation:

Involves guiding loved ones on how to better support the patient and understand the condition.

 A Word from Dr. Sara Michel Basily:

“Personality disorders are not life sentences. With the right diagnosis, therapy, and support system, patients can lead stable, fulfilling lives both emotionally and socially.”