How to Support a Loved One with a Personality Disorder

1. Educate Yourself

Before anything else, you must educate yourself on the disorder your loved one has. You must learn about the symptoms and triggers to best navigate the situation.

2. Validate Them

It can be extremely difficult to deal with a personality disorder. The last thing you should do is undermine their thoughts and feelings. Validate them and tell them you hear and see them.

3. Set Boundaries

Supporting your loved one can be mentally and emotionally draining. It is important to put yourself first and set healthy boundaries with your loved one. One cannot help another if they are not well themselves.

4. Encourage Progress & Responsibility

It is not your job to act as a caretaker, but you can certainly support your loved one. Encourage them to continue to make progress and take responsibility for themselves. They will need to learn how to manage themselves and cannot rely on you to do that for them.

5. Reach Out

If you find yourself struggling, reach out for help and consider therapy. It is also common for an individual with a personality disorder to have suicidal ideations and attempt self-harm. If you find them in that situation you must call EMS immediately.