When we talk about personality disorders, we mostly refer to borderline personality disorder (BPD), avoidant personality disorder (APD) or narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) – but histrionic personality disorder deserves acknowledgement too, because it affects so many people. This disorder is considered a “Cluster B” personality disorder because it’s considered a highly erratic, dramatic and emotional disorder. If you’ve been diagnosed with this disorder, know that you’re not alone – and that help is available.
Those with histrionic personality disorder (HPD) tend to have a distorted image of themselves; their self-esteem is often based on others’ approval, and thus they tend to feel as though they need to “act out” in certain ways to get attention. In 2017, writer Fatima Dereye shared her personal story of HPD via Affinity, a website that publishes content on various topics, such as arts & culture, politics, feminism and more. She stated, “…When I am in a group of friends, I cannot stand being ignored. I will shake, feel anxious and sense that everyone is against me.”
Healthline notes several other symptoms that co-occur with HPD, such as:
- Engaging in provocative behavior
- Displays rapidly shifting emotions
- Exerts a style of speech that lacks detail – such as putting forth an opinion with no clear reason or evidence behind the statements being made
- Self-dramatization
- Easily influenced by others’ actions
- May consider relationships in their lives as being much closer than they really are
- And more
When alcohol or other substances are added to this mix, a person with HPD may experience heightened symptoms. This can certainly negatively affect their ability to form and maintain relationships, and they run the risk of developing substance dependency over a period of time if they continue using substances to self-medicate.
If you’ve been struggling with both HPD and a substance use disorder (SUD), it’s time ot seek the help you need – speak with a professional from Avalon Malibu today.
Avalon Malibu is a world-renowned, California state-licensed mental health and substance abuse recovery center. If you are ready to seek treatment to develop the tools you need to overcome life’s obstacles and be on the road towards happiness, health, and well-being, call us today at 888-958-7511 for a consultation. It’s never too late, and there are people here ready to help you.
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