Self-Medication: Coping Mechanism for Individuals with Personality Disorders
Personality disorders often inflict intense anguish upon those affected and their loved ones. The distressing cycles associated with these disorders often drive individuals to seek solace in substance abuse. Seeking to escape the negative symptoms, many turn to alcohol or drugs as a means to alleviate their pain. Sometimes, these substances may even contribute to the development of the disorder. Regardless of the cause, individuals who engage in self-medication are at a heightened risk of falling into addiction, which further compounds their existing problems.
Depression commonly co-occurs with personality disorders and is particularly prevalent among those who resort to self-medication. Alcohol and various other substances are depressants, further hindering the affected person’s ability to experience a healthy range of emotions.
Suicidal Tendencies and Personality Disorders
Individuals with personality disorders may experience intense thoughts of self-harm, which can manifest in various ways. Some individuals may engage in risky behaviors such as excessive speeding, extreme biking stunts, engaging in promiscuous activities, or experimenting with drugs. Others may resort to masochistic acts like self-cutting. In the most severe cases, these thoughts may escalate to contemplating suicide, and unfortunately, for some, they may even turn into reality. It is important to note that while individuals with personality disorders may exhibit violent behavior, it is often directed towards themselves rather than others.