Personality

Disorders
Personality Disorders Overview

Personality disorders are enduring patterns of inner experience and behavior that significantly
deviate from cultural expectations, are pervasive and inflexible, begin in adolescence or early
adulthood, and cause distress or impairment. The DSM-5-TR categorizes personality disorders
into three clusters:

 Cluster A (Odd/Eccentric) – Paranoid, Schizoid, Schizotypal

 Cluster B (Dramatic/Emotional) – Antisocial, Borderline, Histrionic, Narcissistic
 Cluster C (Anxious/Fearful) – Avoidant, Dependent, Obsessive-Compulsive

Diagnosis & Classification

DSM-5-TR maintains a categorical model in Section II while introducing an alternative

dimensional model in Section III. Personality disorders must be distinguished from transient
behaviors, cultural factors, and symptoms of other mental disorders. Assessment requires
evaluating long-term patterns across multiple contexts.

Prevalence & Clinical Considerations

Epidemiological studies show varying prevalence rates across cultures, influenced by diagnostic
methods and definitions. Some disorders, such as antisocial and borderline, may lessen with age,
while others remain stable. Gender differences in diagnosis exist, though some disparities may
reflect social biases.

Differential Diagnosis

Personality disorders must be differentiated from:

 Persistent mental disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, mood disorders)

 Trauma-related conditions (e.g., PTSD)
 Substance use disorders
 Personality changes due to medical conditions
This classification continues to evolve, with ongoing research exploring the dimensional model’s
clinical utility and cross-cultural applicability.

Cluster C Personality
Disorders
1. Avoidant Personality Disorder (AVPD)
Diagnostic Criteria:
1. A pervasive pattern of social inhibition, feelings of
inadequacy, and hypersensitivity to negative evaluation,
indicated by ≥4 of the following:

 Avoids occupational activities involving significant

interpersonal contact due to fear of criticism.

 Unwilling to engage with others unless certain of being

liked.

 Restrained in intimate relationships due to fear of

shame/ridicule.

 Preoccupation with criticism/rejection in social situations.

 Inhibited in new interpersonal situations due to feelings

of inadequacy.

 Views self as socially inept, unappealing, or inferior.

 Reluctance to take risks due to potential embarrassment.

Associated Features:
 Extreme shyness and social isolation despite a desire for
connection.
  Low self-esteem and hypersensitivity to negative
feedback.

 May develop comorbid anxiety or depressive disorders.

Prevalence:
 Estimated 2.4% in the general population.

Development & Course

1. Often begins in childhood/adolescence with shyness or social
avoidance.

2. Chronic course but may improve with age or supportive

relationships.

Risk Factors
 Childhood emotional neglect, rejection, or bullying.

 Genetic predisposition to anxiety traits.

Cultural Considerations
 Social reticence may be misinterpreted in cultures valuing
extroversion.
 Avoidance linked to experiences of discrimination or
marginalization.

Gender Differences
 Equally prevalent in males and females.

Differential Diagnosis
1. Social Anxiety Disorder: Focuses on performance situations
rather than broad interpersonal avoidance.

2. Schizoid PD: Lack of desire for relationships (vs. AVPD’s desire

for connection).

3. Comorbidity:

4. Social anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, and other

Cluster C disorders.

2. Dependent Personality
Disorder (DPD)
Diagnostic Criteria:
A pervasive need to be cared for, leading to
submissive/clinging behavior, indicated by ≥5 of the following:

1. Difficulty making daily decisions without excessive

advice/reassurance.
 2. Needs others to assume responsibility for major life
areas.

3. Difficulty expressing disagreement due to fear of loss of

support.

4. Difficulty initiating projects due to low self-confidence.

5. Goes to excessive lengths to obtain nurturance/support.

6. Feels helpless when alone due to exaggerated fears of

inability to care for self.

7. Urgently seeks new relationships as a source of care

when one ends.

8. Unrealistic preoccupation with fears of being left to care

for self.

Associated Features
 Pessimism, self-doubt, and passive reliance on others.

 May tolerate abuse or exploitation to avoid abandonment

Prevalence
 Estimated 0.6% in the general population.
 Development & Course
 Often linked to overprotective parenting or chronic illness in
childhood.

 Symptoms may worsen under stress (e.g., loss of a caregiver).

Risk Factors
 Childhood attachment disruptions or authoritarian parenting.

Cultural Considerations
 Interdependence is valued in some cultures; distinguish normative
reliance from pathological dependence.

Gender Differences
 More frequently diagnosed in females, though may reflect
reporting biases

Differential Diagnosis
 1. Borderline PD: Intense fear of abandonment but with
emotional instability and impulsivity.

2. Histrionic PD: Attention-seeking without the reliance on others

for decision-making

Comorbidity
 Major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders, and other
personality disorders (e.g., borderline, avoidant).

Obsessive-Compulsive
Personality Disorder (OCPD)
A pervasive pattern of preoccupation with
orderliness, perfectionism, and control,
indicated by ≥4 of the following:

Preoccupation with details/rules to the extent that the activity’s purpose is

lost.

Perfectionism interfering with task completion.

Excessive devotion to work/productivity (excluding financial necessity).

Overconscientious and inflexible about morality/ethics.

Unable to discard worthless objects.

Reluctant to delegate tasks unless others submit to exact standards.

Miserly spending style (for self and others).

Rigidity and stubbornness.

Associated Features:

High achievement in structured environments but struggles with

flexibility.

Interpersonal difficulties due to critical or controlling behavior.

Prevalence:

Estimated 2.1%–7.9% in the general population.

Development & Course:

Traits often emerge in early adulthood.

Chronic course but may mellow with age.

Risk Factors:

Childhood environments emphasizing strict rules and high

expectations.

Cultural Considerations:

High standards in certain professions (e.g., law, medicine) should

not be conflated with OCPD.

Gender Differences:

More commonly diagnosed in males.

Differential Diagnosis:

OCD: Involves true obsessions/compulsions (vs. OCPD’s personality

traits).
Narcissistic PD: Grandiosity and need for admiration (vs. OCPD’s
focus on order).

Comorbidity:

Anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, and other Cluster C

disorders.

General Notes on Cluster C

Core Theme: Anxiety and fear underlie all three disorders (social
rejection, abandonment, lack of control).

Treatment:

Psychotherapy: CBT to address maladaptive thoughts;

psychodynamic therapy for dependency/avoidance.

Medication: SSRIs for comorbid anxiety/depression.

Prognosis: Variable; improvement possible with therapy focused on

building autonomy (DPD/AVPD) or flexibility (OCPD).

This structured overview aligns with DSM-5 criteria and clinical

insights, providing a comprehensive understanding of Cluster C
disorders.
 Cluster B Personality Disorders:
Detailed Overview

Cluster B personality disorders are characterized by dramatic, emotional, or

erratic behaviors, often marked by impulsivity, intense emotions, and
interpersonal conflicts. The disorders in this cluster include Antisocial
Personality Disorder, Borderline Personality Disorder, Histrionic Personality
Disorder, and Narcissistic Personality Disorder. Below is a detailed
breakdown of each:

1. Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD)

Diagnostic Criteria:
 A pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of others’
rights, occurring since age 15, indicated by ≥3 of the
following:

 Failure to conform to lawful behaviors (e.g., arrests, criminal

activity).

 Deceitfulness (e.g., lying, aliases, conning others).

 Impulsivity or failure to plan ahead.

 Irritability/aggressiveness (e.g., physical fights, assaults).

 Reckless disregard for safety of self/others.

 Consistent irresponsibility (e.g., unemployment, financial

neglect).

 Lack of remorse (indifference to harming others).

Associated Features
 Superficial charm, manipulativeness, and a history of conduct disorder
before age 15.

 Exploitative relationships, substance abuse, and high risk of

incarceration.

 May exhibit psychopathic traits (e.g., callousness, lack of empathy).

Prevalence
 0.6%–3.6% in the general population; up to 70% in prison populations.
Development & Course
 Conduct disorder in childhood is a precursor.

 Symptoms peak in late adolescence/early adulthood; may improve

after age 40.

Risk Factors
 Childhood abuse/neglect, parental substance use, or antisocial
behavior.

 Genetic predisposition (e.g., family history of ASPD or substance use).

Cultural
Considerations:
Overdiagnosis risk in marginalized groups due to systemic biases (e.g.,
conflating survival behaviors with pathology).
 Gender Differences
Diagnosed 3x more often in males.

Differential Diagnosis
Narcissistic PD: Exploitation for personal gain vs. ASPD’s broader criminality.

Substance Use Disorders: Distinguish antisocial behaviors driven by

addiction.

Comorbidity
 Substance use disorders, gambling disorder, ADHD, and other Cluster
B disorders.

2. Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

Diagnostic Criteria
 A pervasive pattern of instability in relationships, self-image,
and emotions, indicated by ≥5 of the following:
 Frantic efforts to avoid real/imagined abandonment.

 Unstable/intense relationships (idealization/devaluation

cycles).

 Identity disturbance (unstable self-image).

 Impulsivity in ≥2 self-damaging areas (e.g., substance use,

reckless driving).

 Recurrent suicidal behavior/self-harm.

 Affective instability (e.g., intense mood swings lasting

hours/days).

 Chronic feelings of emptiness.

 Inappropriate anger or difficulty controlling anger.

 Transient paranoid ideation or dissociation under stress.

Associated Features
 “Splitting” (black-and-white thinking), intense fear of rejection, and
emotional hypersensitivity.

 High rates of childhood trauma (e.g., abuse, neglect).

Prevalence
 1.4%–5.9% in the general population; 20% of psychiatric inpatients.

Development & Course

 Symptoms emerge in adolescence; may improve with age (e.g.,
reduced impulsivity).

Risk Factors
 Genetic vulnerability combined with invalidating environments (e.g.,
abuse, family conflict).
 Gender Differences
 Diagnosed 3x more often in females; possible underdiagnosis in males.

Differential Diagnosis
 Bipolar Disorder: Episodic mood swings vs. BPD’s reactivity to
interpersonal stressors.

 CPTSD: Overlapping emotional dysregulation but distinct trauma focus.

Comorbidity
Major depressive disorder, PTSD, eating disorders, and substance use
disorders.

3. Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD)

Diagnostic Criteria
 A pervasive pattern of excessive emotionality and attention-seeking,
indicated by ≥5 of the following:
 Discomfort when not the center of attention.

 Inappropriately seductive/provocative behavior.

 Rapidly shifting/shallow emotions.

 Uses physical appearance to draw attention.

 Impressionistic, vague speech.

 Exaggerated emotional expression (theatricality).

 Suggestibility (easily influenced by others).

 Overestimates intimacy in relationships.

Associated Features
 Craves novelty, easily bored, and may use manipulation to maintain
attention.

 Relationships often feel superficial or emotionally draining to others.

 Prevalence
 0.9%–1.8% in the general population.

Development & Course

 Symptoms emerge in early adulthood; may diminish with age.

Risk Factors
 Childhood environments with inconsistent attention or reinforcement of
dramatic behaviors.

Cultural
Considerations
 Theatricality may be misinterpreted in cultures valuing emotional
restraint.
 Gender Differences
Historically diagnosed more in females; modern studies show equal
prevalence.

Differential Diagnosis
 Borderline PD: Focus on abandonment fears vs. HPD’s need for
attention.

 Narcissistic PD: Desire for admiration vs. HPD’s need for emotional
engagement.

Comorbidity
 Somatic symptom disorder, depression, and other Cluster B disorders.

4. Narcissistic Personality Disorder

(NPD)

Diagnostic Criteria
 A pervasive pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of
empathy, indicated by ≥5 of the following:

 Grandiose sense of self-importance.

 Preoccupation with fantasies of power, success, or beauty.

 Belief in being “special” and requiring association with high-status

others.

 Requires excessive admiration.

 Sense of entitlement.

 Exploitative of others.

 Lacks empathy.

 Envious of others or believes others envy them.

 Arrogant/haughty behaviors.

Associated Features
Fragile self-esteem masked by arrogance; prone to rage when criticized.

Vulnerable subtype (covert narcissism) may present as hypersensitive or

introverted.

Prevalence
 1.6%–6.2% in the general population.

Development & Course

 Traits often emerge in adolescence; grandiosity may decline with aging
or failure.

Risk Factors
 Parental overvaluation or excessive criticism in childhood.

Cultural
Considerations
  Individualistic societies may normalize narcissistic traits (e.g.,
competitiveness).

Gender Differences
Diagnosed more in males; covert narcissism may be underrecognized in
females.

Differential Diagnosis
 Antisocial PD: Exploitation for material gain vs. NPD’s need for status.

 Bipolar Disorder (Manic Phase): Grandiosity tied to mood episodes vs.

NPD’s pervasive traits.

Comorbidity
 Depression, anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders (especially
during “narcissistic collapse”).
 General Notes on
Cluster B
 Core Theme: Emotional dysregulation and interpersonal volatility.

Treatment:
 BPD: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), mentalization-based therapy.

 ASPD: Limited treatment efficacy; focus on harm reduction.

NPD/HPD: Psychodynamic therapy

to address underlying
insecurities.

Prognosis:

1. BPD often improves with therapy; ASPD and NPD are more
resistant to change.
 2. High risk of legal, occupational, and relational dysfunction
across disorders.

3. This structured overview aligns with DSM-5 criteria and clinical

insights, providing a comprehens
4. ive understanding of Cluster B disorders.

Cluster A Personality Disorders: A

Detailed Overview

Cluster A personality disorders are characterized by odd, eccentric thinking

and behavior. These disorders include Paranoid Personality Disorder (PPD),
Schizoid Personality Disorder (SPD), and Schizotypal Personality Disorder
(STPD). Individuals with these disorders often experience social difficulties,
emotional detachment, and cognitive distortions.

1. Paranoid Personality Disorder (PPD)

Overview
PPD is marked by pervasive distrust and suspicion of others, even when
there is no justification for such beliefs.
 Symptoms
 Persistent suspicion of others’ motives.

 Reluctance to confide in others due to fear of betrayal.

 Reading hidden demeaning or threatening meanings into benign

remarks or events.

 Holding grudges and being unforgiving.

 Perceiving attacks on their character that are not apparent to others

and reacting angrily.

Causes & Risk Factors

 Genetic predisposition (family history of schizophrenia or delusional
disorders).

 Childhood trauma or abuse.

 Environmental and social factors.

Treatment Approaches
 Psychotherapy (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - CBT, supportive
therapy).

 Medications (antidepressants or antipsychotics, if symptoms are

severe).

 Building trust through structured and supportive relationships.

2. Schizoid Personality Disorder

(SPD)

Overview
SPD is characterized by a persistent pattern of detachment from social
relationships and a limited range of emotional expression.
 Symptoms
 Preference for solitude and little to no interest in close relationships,
including family.

 Lack of desire for sexual or romantic relationships.

 Emotional coldness, detachment, or flat affect.

 Indifference to praise or criticism.

 Limited pleasure in activities.

Causes & Risk Factors

 Genetic links to schizophrenia.

 Early childhood neglect or emotional coldness.

 Dysfunctional family dynamics.

Treatment Approaches
 Psychotherapy (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, supportive therapy).

 Social skills training to enhance interpersonal interactions.

 Medication (used for co-existing conditions like depression or anxiety).

3. Schizotypal Personality Disorder

(STPD)

Overview
STPD is marked by severe social anxiety, odd beliefs, and eccentric
behaviors that may resemble schizophrenia but are less severe.

Symptoms
 Strange or eccentric beliefs, including magical thinking or
superstitions.
 Unusual perceptual experiences (illusions or feeling the presence of
someone who isn’t there).

 Social anxiety and discomfort in close relationships.

 Paranoid fears and suspicion of others.

 Odd speech patterns or thinking.

 Lack of close friends or confidants.

Causes & Risk Factors

 Genetic links to schizophrenia spectrum disorders.

 Childhood trauma or extreme social isolation.

 Neurobiological abnormalities affecting thought processes.

Treatment Approaches
 Psychotherapy (CBT, supportive therapy, social skills training).
  Medications (low-dose antipsychotics, antidepressants for mood
regulation).

 Building structured social environments to help reduce paranoia and

discomfort.

Conclusion
Cluster A personality disorders involve significant challenges in social
interaction, thought patterns, and emotional responses. Early identification
and intervention can help individuals manage symptoms and improve their
quality of life. A combination of psychotherapy, medication, and social
support is often the most effective treatment approach.
 Trauma Disorders: A
Comprehensive
Overview
Trauma disorders are a category of mental health conditions that develop in
response to experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. These disorders
often involve distressing symptoms such as flashbacks, hyperarousal,
avoidance behaviors, and emotional dysregulation. The most common
trauma-related disorders include Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD),
Acute Stress Disorder (ASD), Adjustment Disorder (AD), and Complex PTSD
(C-PTSD).

1. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Overview
 PTSD is a chronic mental health condition that can develop after
experiencing a highly stressful or life-threatening event.

Symptoms
 Re-experiencing the trauma through intrusive memories, nightmares,
or flashbacks.

 Avoidance of people, places, or activities that remind one of the

trauma.

 Negative changes in mood and cognition (e.g., guilt, detachment,

difficulty remembering details of the trauma).

 Hyperarousal symptoms such as irritability, difficulty sleeping, and

heightened startle response.

Causes & Risk Factors

 Exposure to traumatic events (e.g., combat, natural disasters, abuse,
serious accidents).

 Pre-existing mental health conditions or family history.

 Lack of social support post-trauma.

Treatment Approaches
 Psychotherapy (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - CBT, Eye Movement
Desensitization and Reprocessing - EMDR, exposure therapy).
  Medications (SSRIs, SNRIs, and in some cases, mood stabilizers).

 Support groups and lifestyle changes to manage stress and improve

well-being.

2. Acute Stress Disorder (ASD)

Overview
ASD occurs in response to a traumatic event, similar to PTSD, but symptoms
develop immediately and typically resolve within a month.

Symptoms
 Intense fear, horror, or helplessness.

 Dissociative symptoms (e.g., depersonalization, derealization, amnesia

regarding the trauma).

 Intrusive thoughts and flashbacks.

 Emotional numbness and difficulty concentrating.

Causes & Risk Factors
 Experiencing or witnessing trauma.

 Previous history of trauma or anxiety disorders.

 High levels of emotional distress or lack of coping mechanisms.

Treatment Approaches
 Short-term psychotherapy (Trauma-focused CBT, stress management
techniques).

 Medications (temporary use of anxiolytics or antidepressants).

 Early intervention to prevent progression to PTSD.

3. Adjustment Disorder (AD)

Overview:
AD is a stress-related condition that occurs in response to a significant life
change or stressful event, leading to emotional and behavioral disturbances.

Symptoms:
 Marked distress out of proportion to the severity of the stressor.

 Difficulty coping with daily activities.

 Depressed mood, anxiety, or behavioral disturbances.

 Social withdrawal and functional impairment.

Causes & Risk Factors

 Major life changes (e.g., divorce, job loss, relocation, bereavement).

 Lack of effective coping skills or support systems.

 History of mental health conditions.

Treatment Approaches
 Psychotherapy (CBT, interpersonal therapy, stress management
techniques).

 Medication (temporary use of antidepressants or anxiolytics for

symptom relief).

 Coping strategies and lifestyle adjustments to enhance resilience.

4. Complex PTSD (C-PTSD)

Overview
C-PTSD is a severe form of PTSD that results from prolonged or repeated
trauma, such as childhood abuse, domestic violence, or long-term captivity.

Symptoms
 Core PTSD symptoms (re-experiencing, avoidance, hyperarousal).

 Emotional dysregulation and difficulty controlling emotions.

 Persistent negative self-view and deep-seated feelings of guilt and
shame.

 Interpersonal difficulties and distrust of others.

 Dissociation and feelings of emptiness or detachment.

Causes & Risk Factors

 Chronic exposure to traumatic events, especially in early life.

 Dysfunctional or abusive relationships.

 Lack of emotional and social support.

Treatment Approaches
 Long-term psychotherapy (Dialectical Behavior Therapy - DBT, trauma-
focused CBT, EMDR).
  Medication (antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and anxiolytics as
needed).

 Building supportive relationships and engaging in self-care activities.

Conclusion
Trauma disorders significantly impact individuals' emotional, cognitive, and
social functioning. However, with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment,
many individuals can recover and lead fulfilling lives. A combination of
psychotherapy, medication, and support systems plays a crucial role in
managing these disorders.

Anxiety Disorders: A Comprehensive Overview

Anxiety disorders are a category of mental health conditions characterized

by excessive fear, worry, and nervousness. These disorders can significantly
impact daily functioning and overall well-being. The most common anxiety
disorders include Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Social
Anxiety Disorder (SAD), Specific Phobias, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
(OCD).

1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Overview:

GAD is a chronic condition marked by persistent and excessive worry about

various aspects of life, such as work, health, and social interactions.
Symptoms:

 Excessive and uncontrollable worry.

 Restlessness, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.

 Muscle tension and fatigue.

 Sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling or staying asleep.

Causes & Risk Factors:

 Genetic predisposition and family history.

 Prolonged stress and traumatic life events.

 Imbalances in brain chemistry and function.

Treatment Approaches:

 Psychotherapy (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy - CBT, relaxation

techniques).

 Medications (SSRIs, SNRIs, and benzodiazepines for short-term relief).

  Lifestyle changes (exercise, mindfulness, stress management
strategies).

2. Panic Disorder

Overview:

Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks,

which involve intense fear and physical symptoms.

Symptoms:

 Sudden, intense episodes of fear or discomfort.

 Heart palpitations, sweating, trembling, and shortness of breath.

 Feelings of choking, dizziness, or detachment from reality.

 Fear of losing control or impending doom.

Causes & Risk Factors:

 Genetic and biological predisposition.

 Stressful life events and trauma.

  Dysregulation in brain function and neurotransmitters.

Treatment Approaches:

 Psychotherapy (CBT, exposure therapy, relaxation techniques).

 Medications (antidepressants, benzodiazepines, beta-blockers).

 Breathing exercises and lifestyle adjustments to reduce panic

symptoms.

3. Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)

Overview:

SAD involves intense fear of social situations due to concerns about

embarrassment, judgment, or humiliation.

Symptoms:

 Fear of speaking in public or meeting new people.

 Avoidance of social situations.

 Physical symptoms like blushing, sweating, trembling, or nausea.

  Overanalyzing past social interactions.

Causes & Risk Factors:

 Genetic and environmental influences.

 Negative social experiences or bullying.

 Overactive amygdala (the brain’s fear center).

Treatment Approaches:

Psychotherapy (CBT, exposure therapy, social skills training).

Medications (SSRIs, SNRIs, beta-blockers).

Gradual exposure to social situations to build confidence.

4. Specific Phobias

Overview:

Specific phobias are intense, irrational fears of particular objects or

situations, such as heights, animals, or flying.
Symptoms:

 Extreme anxiety or panic when exposed to the phobic stimulus.

 Avoidance of feared situations or objects.

 Physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and nausea.

 Recognition that the fear is excessive, yet inability to control it.

Causes & Risk Factors:

 Traumatic experiences related to the feared object or situation.

 Learned behaviors and conditioning.

 Genetic predisposition.

Treatment Approaches:

 Exposure therapy (gradual exposure to the feared object or situation).

 Cognitive-behavioral strategies to challenge irrational thoughts.

  Medications (anti-anxiety medications, beta-blockers for physical
symptoms).

5. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Overview:

OCD is marked by recurrent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive

behaviors or rituals (compulsions) performed to alleviate anxiety.

Symptoms:

 Persistent unwanted thoughts (e.g., fear of contamination, harm, or

orderliness).

 Compulsive behaviors (e.g., excessive handwashing, checking,

counting, arranging).

 Significant distress and impairment in daily functioning.

Causes & Risk Factors:

 Genetic and neurological factors.

 Imbalances in serotonin and brain circuit abnormalities.

  Childhood trauma or environmental influences.

Treatment Approaches:

 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) (Exposure and Response

Prevention - ERP).

 Medications (SSRIs, tricyclic antidepressants).

 Mindfulness and habit reversal techniques to manage compulsions.

Conclusion

Anxiety disorders can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, but

effective treatments are available. Early intervention, therapy, medication,
and lifestyle changes can help individuals manage symptoms and regain
control over their lives.

DSM-5/DSM-5TR: Comprehensive Breakdown of Diagnoses

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-
5) and its updated version, DSM-5 Text Revision (DSM-5TR), serve as the
primary references for diagnosing mental health disorders. These manuals,
published by the American Psychiatric Association, provide standardized
criteria for mental health professionals.

Key Features of DSM-5

Introduced a lifespan approach to mental health.

Reorganized and reclassified several disorders for clarity.

Eliminated the multi-axial system used in DSM-IV.

Updated diagnostic criteria for disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder

(ASD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Introduced new disorders, including Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder

(DMDD) and Hoarding Disorder.

Key Updates in DSM-5TR

Refinements in diagnostic criteria for several disorders.

Addition of Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD) as a new diagnosis.

Updated language to reflect current clinical and cultural considerations.

Revised symptom descriptions for improved clarity and accuracy.

Expanded guidance on differential diagnosis and comorbidities.

Complete DSM-5TR Diagnoses List by Category

Neurodevelopmental Disorders

Intellectual Disabilities

Communication Disorders

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Specific Learning Disorder

Motor Disorders (including Tic Disorders)

Schizophrenia Spectrum and Other Psychotic Disorders

Schizophrenia

Schizoaffective Disorder
Schizophreniform Disorder

Brief Psychotic Disorder

Delusional Disorder

Catatonia

Bipolar and Related Disorders

Bipolar I Disorder

Bipolar II Disorder

Cyclothymic Disorder

Depressive Disorders

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Anxiety Disorders

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Panic Disorder

Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)

Specific Phobias

Separation Anxiety Disorder

Selective Mutism

Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Hoarding Disorder

Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling Disorder)

Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder

Trauma- and Stressor-Related Disorders

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Acute Stress Disorder

Adjustment Disorders

Reactive Attachment Disorder

Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder

Prolonged Grief Disorder (PGD)

Dissociative Disorders

Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID)

Dissociative Amnesia

Depersonalization/Derealization Disorder

Somatic Symptom and Related Disorders

Somatic Symptom Disorder

Illness Anxiety Disorder

Conversion Disorder (Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder)

Factitious Disorder

Feeding and Eating Disorders

Anorexia Nervosa

Bulimia Nervosa

Binge-Eating Disorder

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

Elimination Disorders

Enuresis (Bed-Wetting)

Encopresis (Involuntary Defecation)

Sleep-Wake Disorders

Insomnia Disorder

Hypersomnolence Disorder

Narcolepsy

Breathing-Related Sleep Disorders

Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorders

Parasomnias

Sexual Dysfunctions

Erectile Disorder

Female Sexual Interest/Arousal Disorder

Male Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder

Premature Ejaculation

Genito-Pelvic Pain/Penetration Disorder

Gender Dysphoria

Gender Dysphoria in Children

Gender Dysphoria in Adolescents and Adults

Disruptive, Impulse-Control, and Conduct Disorders

Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)

Conduct Disorder

Intermittent Explosive Disorder

Kleptomania

Pyromania

Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders

Alcohol Use Disorder

Opioid Use Disorder

Stimulant Use Disorder

Cannabis Use Disorder

Tobacco Use Disorder

Gambling Disorder

Neurocognitive Disorders

Delirium

Major Neurocognitive Disorder

Mild Neurocognitive Disorder (Due to Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, TBI, etc.)

Personality Disorders

Cluster A: Paranoid, Schizoid, Schizotypal Personality Disorders

Cluster B: Antisocial, Borderline, Histrionic, Narcissistic Personality Disorders

Cluster C: Avoidant, Dependent, Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorders

Paraphilic Disorders
Voyeuristic Disorder

Exhibitionistic Disorder

Frotteuristic Disorder

Sexual Masochism Disorder

Sexual Sadism Disorder

Pedophilic Disorder

Fetishistic Disorder

Transvestic Disorder

Significance in Clinical Practice

Provides mental health professionals with a standardized framework for

assessment.

Aids in insurance coding and treatment planning.

Enhances research consistency and validity in mental health studies.