Personality disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by enduring patterns of behavior, thoughts, and emotions that significantly deviate from cultural expectations or norms. Some of the most common personality disorders are borderline personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, and narcissistic personality disorder.[1]
People with personality disorders often struggle to respond to the world around them in healthy, adaptive ways, leading to persistent conflict, distress, and social or occupational impairment. Unfortunately, some individuals with personality disorders may turn to substances like drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with intense emotions, social isolation, or other distressing symptoms related to their disorder.
If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse issues and has a diagnosed personality disorder, it’s important to receive dual diagnosis treatment tailored to your needs. With the right care, individuals can learn effective coping skills and make progress toward both mental health stability and lasting recovery from addiction.
Understanding the Relationship Between Addiction and Personality Disorders
Personality disorders and addiction are closely connected, often co-occurring and complicating one another. Individuals with personality disorders may turn to substances like drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with intense emotions, social isolation, or other distressing symptoms related to their disorder. This tendency is known as “self-medication,” where substances temporarily alleviate difficult emotions but ultimately reinforce unhealthy coping mechanisms and lead to dependency.
Evidence shows that around 50% of people with personality disorders suffer from substance use disorder.[2]
Many personality disorders, especially those in Cluster B, involve difficulties with managing emotions and impulsivity. For instance, people with borderline personality disorder (BPD) may struggle with intense mood swings and a low tolerance for distress, which can make substances feel like an easy way to escape their discomfort, despite the long-term consequences.[3,4]
Not only that, but many individuals with personality disorders experience strained relationships, difficulty trusting others, or feelings of inadequacy and rejection.[4] To cope with these challenges, some people might use substances to feel more comfortable socially, leading to a cycle where they rely on these substances to interact with others, reinforcing both their addiction and isolation.
Challenges in Treatment
Treatment for co-occurring personality disorders and addiction often requires specialized care, as personality disorders can complicate recovery.
The underlying emotional or behavioral symptoms of the personality disorder can trigger relapses in substance use, making recovery more challenging. Additionally, some personality disorders are associated with high-risk behaviors and a lack of regard for safety, such as those with Antisocial Personality Disorder. Substance use often fits into a pattern of risk-taking behavior, and this combination can lead to more frequent or severe substance abuse problems.
Additionally, all personality disorders present differently, and they can be difficult to treat, even for the most experienced clinicians. Individuals must commit to their treatment plan and can often benefit from extended, residential treatment programs.
Treatment for Personality Disorders and Addiction in Florida: What to Expect
Treatment typically begins with intake, assessment, and detox. After detoxing, intensive group and individual therapy sessions begin.
Behavioral Therapy
Therapies like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) are commonly used to treat both personality disorders and substance abuse issues.[3] DBT helps individuals manage intense emotions and impulsive behaviors, while CBT addresses harmful thought patterns that often fuel addiction and symptoms of personality disorders.
Trauma-informed therapy is also offered for those with past trauma that may contribute to their conditions. Additionally, Motivational Interviewing (MI) is used to enhance commitment to recovery, especially for those who may be ambivalent about treatment.
Group Support
Group therapy provides a supportive setting where patients can share experiences and learn from others. Many programs incorporate 12-step models or alternatives like SMART Recovery, which provide peer support to reinforce long-term sobriety. This is an important part of addiction recovery and managing personality disorders that affect personal relationships.
Life Skills Training and Relapse Prevention
Life skills training aims to help individuals build the tools needed for long-term success. This includes learning to manage stress, improve communication, set healthy boundaries, and rebuild relationships.
On a similar note, relapse prevention strategies are taught to help individuals identify triggers, manage cravings, and use coping techniques when faced with challenging situations. By equipping patients with these skills, they are better prepared to maintain sobriety and emotional stability after treatment.
Aftercare
Once the primary treatment phase is complete, treatment programs in Florida offer continued support through outpatient therapy, support groups, or sober living communities. This ongoing care helps individuals stay connected to a recovery network and prevent relapse.
Get Treatment for Personality Disorders and Addiction in Florida Today
At First Step Behavioral Health, we craft personalized dual-diagnosis treatment plans aligned with each client’s distinct needs and aspirations. Progress is tailored to each individual’s pace, while education on addiction, recovery, and relapse prevention equips them with essential skills.
If you or someone you love is struggling with a dual diagnosis, contact First Step today to find out more about how we can help you get on the road to recovery.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Personality Disorders
- Science Direct: Personality disorder and substance use disorder – An update
- BMC Springer Nature: Borderline personality disorder and substance use disorders: an updated review
- Journal of Mental Health and Clinical Psychology: Personality Profiles of Individuals with Substance Use Disorders: Historical Overview and Current Directions