Histrionic personality disorder (HPD) is one of a larger group of mental health disorders called “Cluster B” personality disorders. This subset of personality disorders is characterized by overly emotional, dramatic, and erratic behaviors. Other “Cluster B” personality disorders include antisocial personality disorder, borderline personality disorder, and narcissistic personality disorder. It is common for individuals to have co-occurring “Cluster B” personality disorders and anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.
We provide comprehensive, evidence-based mental health treatment for numerous mental health disorders at Harmony Hills. Our histrionic personality disorder treatment program can help you or a loved one overcome the chaos caused by HPD, gain a true sense of self-worth, and learn to develop and maintain healthy relationships. Call us at 855.494.0357 to learn about treatment for histrionic personality disorder.
Do You Need Histrionic Personality Disorder Therapy?
Most people with histrionic personality disorder are unaware that they need treatment because they do not view their symptoms or behaviors as problematic. Their way of thinking and behaving feels natural to them, and they typically blame others for their problems or when things go wrong for them.
Many people with HPD can function fairly successfully at work, school, or in general social situations but have significant relationship challenges. While people with HPD tend to have great people skills, they use them in manipulative ways. People who have HPD do not have genuine feelings of self-worth. The basis of their self-esteem is dependent upon approval from others.
Signs and symptoms of histrionic personality disorder include, but are not limited to:
- Being uncomfortable when not the center of attention
- Having rapidly shifting and shallow emotions
- Needing instant gratification and being easily bored or frustrated
- Inappropriately sexual with most people, even if they are not attracted to them
- Being overly dramatic and emotional, even to the point of embarrassing others
- Overly concerned with physical appearance
- Constantly seeking reassurance or approval
- Gullible and easily influenced by others, especially those they admire
- Impulsive and self-centered
Individuals with HPD appear fake and shallow. They speak dramatically and have strong opinions but do not have facts or details to support them. They misread their relationships with others, believing them to be more intimate than they are. In extreme cases, individuals with HPD may threaten or attempt suicide to get attention.
Treating Histrionic Personality Disorder
Histrionic personality disorder usually presents in adolescence or early adulthood. Though it appears more prevalent in women, some experts believe it may be underreported in men. It is estimated that HPD impacts about 2% of the population.
There are many challenges to treating histrionic personality disorder. As mentioned, most people with HPD do not view their behaviors as problematic, which is the most significant barrier to treatment. Additionally, they tend to exaggerate their feelings and intensely dislike routines, making it challenging to follow a treatment plan.
For most, the best course of treatment for HPD involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and holistic therapy. At Harmony Hills, clients receive individualized treatment plans based on their unique needs, challenges, and circumstances. Treatment for a histrionic personality disorder may include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
- Trauma therapy
- Motivational interviewing (MI)
- Motivational enhancement therapy (MET)
- Medication management
- Social and emotional skills training
- Dual diagnosis treatment
While group therapy is highly-effective and typically an integral part of mental health treatment at Harmony Hills, it is not always an ideal choice for those with HPD because behaviors such as attention-seeking and emotional exaggeration can be triggered in a group setting. That said, group therapy specific to HPD can be helpful for people to have their behaviors reflected at them.
Contact Harmony Hills for Histrionic Personality Disorder Treatment
Having histrionic personality disorder or being involved with someone can make life feel chaotic and exhausting. Histrionic personality disorder treatment at Harmony Hills can help you overcome symptoms by providing the support needed to foster the development of your self-esteem and gain insight into your thoughts and feelings.
If you think you or a loved one need treatment for histrionic personality disorder, Harmony Hills can help. Contact us using our secure online form, or call 855.494.0357 to speak with a team member today.
