Feb. 2, 2024 | Maybe you know someone like this. They are able to act witty and charming, capable of manipulating other people’s emotions. But they also break the law repeatedly, disregard their safety and the safety of others, all without showing any guilt or remorse. Antisocial personality disorder is considered one of the most misunderstood mental disorders. According to the American Psychiatric Association, it is estimated to affect between 0.6% and 3.6% of adults, and it is three times more common among men than women. Individuals with antisocial personality disorder often also have co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. While antisocial personality disorder is only diagnosed in adults, individuals show signs earlier and may be diagnosed with conduct disorder as a child or teen. Long-term studies show that symptoms of antisocial personality disorder may lessen as individuals age.

Feb. 2, 2024 | Personality is the combination of thoughts, emotions and behaviors that makes everyone unique. This includes interests, abilities and values. It’s the way people view, understand, and relate to the outside world, as well as how they see themselves. Personality begins to form during childhood and is more solidified as the person reaches young adulthood. It’s likely shaped by inherited genes as well as life situations and experiences. The exact cause of antisocial personality disorder isn’t known, but genes may make you vulnerable to developing the disorder, and life situations, especially neglect, abuse, and exposure to violence during childhood, may further its development. Certain complications, such as financial, educational, occupational, and other social problems, may occur as a result of the disorder, which can lead to many of those diagnosed with it dying at a young age, often due to violence or poor attention to their health.

Feb. 2, 2024 | According to UAMS psychiatrist Lindsey Wilbanks, people with antisocial personality disorder are not likely to believe they need help, but they may seek help from their primary care physician because of symptoms such as depression, anxiety, or even difficulty controlling their anger. Others may seek treatment for problems with alcohol or drug use. People with this disorder may not give an accurate description of their symptoms, particularly if they try to portray themselves in a positive light. A key factor in diagnosis is how the person relates to others. With permission, family and friends may be able to give helpful information. After a medical exam to rule out other medical conditions, the physician may make a referral to a mental health professional with experience in diagnosing and treating antisocial personality disorder. Dr. Wilbanks says this disorder isn’t diagnosed before age 18 but some symptoms may occur in childhood or early teen years.

Feb. 2, 2024 | Antisocial personality disorder is challenging to treat, but for some people, treatment and close follow-up over the long term may help. Look for medical and mental health providers with experience in treating the disorder. Talk therapy, also called psychotherapy, is sometimes used to treat it. Therapy may include, for example, anger and violence management, treatment for problems with alcohol or drugs, and treatment for other mental health conditions. But talk therapy is not always effective, especially if symptoms are severe and the person can’t admit that they contribute to serious problems. Group psychotherapy is generally considered “contraindicated” with antisocial personality disorder due to their difficulty relating with others. There are no medications specifically approved to treat antisocial personality disorder. A mental health professional may prescribe medicines for co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety, or to help manage aggression.

Feb. 2, 2024 | Antisocial personality disorder is one of the hardest personality disorders to treat. People with this condition usually don’t seek treatment on their own. They may only start therapy when required to by the legal system. People with the disorder often act out and cause others to suffer, with limited remorse. If you have a loved one with antisocial personality disorder, it’s critical that you also get help for yourself. A mental health professional can teach you skills to learn how to set boundaries and help protect yourself from the aggression, violence, and anger common to antisocial personality disorder. The physician can also recommend strategies for coping. Look for a mental health provider who has training and experience in managing antisocial personality disorder. Ask your loved one’s health care provider for a referral. The provider may be able to recommend support groups for families and friends affected by antisocial personality disorder.