Personality Disorders

Clinical studies show that approximately 10% of American adults experience symptoms of a personality disorder. If you have ongoing challenges with relationships, emotional regulation, or patterns of thinking and behavior that interfere with daily life, Tammi Bancroft, FNP-C, can help. At Healing Hope Suboxone, Addiction Recovery & Psychiatry, Tammi provides comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and personalized treatment plans to support your mental health and well-being. She offers in-person and virtual care from the practice's main location in Colorado and also provides virtual appointments for patients throughout Arizona. Call the office or request an appointment online today to schedule a visit.

What is a personality disorder?

A personality disorder is a mental health condition characterized by persistent patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that differ significantly from cultural expectations and create difficulties in daily life. These patterns tend to be inflexible and may affect relationships, self-image, emotional regulation, and decision-making.

There are several types of personality disorders, including borderline personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, avoidant personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, and others. While symptoms vary, all personality disorders can interfere with an individual's ability to function effectively in personal and professional settings.

What are the symptoms of a personality disorder?

Symptoms can vary depending on the specific type of personality disorder, but common signs may include:

• Difficulty maintaining healthy relationships
• Intense or unstable emotions
• Fear of abandonment or rejection
• Impulsive or risky behaviors
• Persistent feelings of emptiness
• Low self-esteem or distorted self-image
• Difficulty trusting others
• Extreme sensitivity to criticism
• Social withdrawal or avoidance
• Problems managing anger or frustration

Many individuals experience symptoms for years before seeking professional support. Early intervention can help improve functioning and quality of life.

When should I seek help for a personality disorder?

You should consider scheduling an appointment at Healing Hope Suboxone, Addiction Recovery & Psychiatry when symptoms begin interfering with daily life, relationships, work performance, or emotional well-being. Individuals who experience recurring conflicts, unstable relationships, emotional distress, self-destructive behaviors, or co-occurring substance use concerns may benefit from a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation.

Seeking treatment early can help prevent symptoms from worsening and provide individuals with effective tools for managing challenges more successfully.

How is a personality disorder treated?

At Healing Hope Suboxone, Addiction Recovery & Psychiatry, Tammi usually uses a combination of psychiatric care, psychotherapy, and ongoing support. Tammi offers services via telehealth that may include diagnostic evaluations, medication management when appropriate, and coordination with therapists who specialize in evidence-based approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed care.

For individuals who also struggle with substance use disorders, integrated treatment can address both conditions simultaneously. This comprehensive approach helps patients develop healthier coping skills, improve emotional regulation, strengthen relationships, and reduce harmful behaviors.

Telehealth makes mental health care more accessible for individuals. If you're interested in seeking help for a personality disorder, call the office or request an appointment online today.