Histrionic personality disorder (patient information)

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Editor-in-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S.,M.D. [1] Phone:617-632-7753; Associate Editor-In-Chief: Lakshmi Gopalakrishnan, M.B.B.S.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Histrionic personality disorder is a condition in which people act in a very emotional and dramatic way that draws attention to themselves.

What are the symptoms of Histrionic personality disorder?[edit | edit source]

• People with this disorder are usually able to function at a high level and can be successful socially and at work.

• Symptoms include:

• Acting or looking overly seductive
• Being easily influenced by other people
• Being overly concerned with their looks
• Being overly dramatic and emotional
• Being overly sensitive to criticism or disapproval
• Believing that relationships are more intimate than they actually are
• Blaming failure or disappointment on others
• Constantly seeking reassurance or approval
• Having a low tolerance for frustration or delayed gratification
• Needing to be the center of attention (self-centeredness)
• Quickly changing emotions, which may seem shallow to others

What causes Histrionic personality disorder?[edit | edit source]

• The cause of this disorder is unknown. Both genes and early childhood events are thought to contribute.

• It occurs more often in women than in men, although it may be diagnosed more often in women because attention-seeking and sexual forwardness are less socially acceptable for women.

• Histrionic personality disorder usually begins in early adulthood.

When to seek urgent medical care?[edit | edit source]

• Call your health care provider if you think you may have symptoms of histrionic personality disorder.

• It is important to call if this condition is affecting your sense of well-being, relationships, or ability to keep a job.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

• The health care provider can diagnose histrionic personality disorder by looking at your:

• Behavior
• History
• Overall appearance
• Psychological evaluation

• Like other personality disorders, histrionic personality disorder is diagnosed based on a psychological evaluation and the history and severity of the symptoms.

Treatment options[edit | edit source]

• People with this condition often seek treatment when they experience depression or anxiety from failed romantic relationships or other conflicts with people.

• Medication may help the symptoms, but talk therapy (psychotherapy) is the best treatment for the condition itself.

When to seek urgent medical care?[edit | edit source]

Directions to Hospitals Treating Histrionic personality disorder

What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?[edit | edit source]

• Histrionic personality disorder can improve with psychotherapy and sometimes medications.
• If left untreated, it can cause conflict in people's personal life and prevent them from reaching their potential in their work life.

Possible complications[edit | edit source]

• Histrionic personality disorder may affect your social or romantic relationships, or your ability to cope with losses or failures.
• You may go through many job changes as you become easily bored and have trouble dealing with frustration.
• Because you tend to crave new things and excitement, you may put yourself in risky situations. All of these factors may lead to a greater risk of depression.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Mental health treatment may help you learn better ways of understanding and dealing with your needs.

Source[edit | edit source]

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001531.htm

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