Personality disorder: why changing attitudes can benefit people with complex emotional difficulties

Perceived as having ‘complex needs’ people with a personality disorder often face exclusion from effective treatment

• Only one in four people diagnosed with a personality disorder has been referred to a specialist service
• The average lifespan of service users with a personality disorder diagnosis is 19 years shorter than the general population
• Mind advocates for a trauma-informed, formulation-driven and whole-system approach to care

It is well documented that people with a diagnosis of personality disorder face complex challenges.

They are vulnerable to anxiety and depression, as well as problems with alcohol and drugs. Health problems such as obesity and cardiovascular disease are common.

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