Emerging or Stabilised Personality Disorders
Experiencing trauma can leave lasting effects that go far beyond the initial event. For some people, these effects fade over time, but for others, trauma leads to ongoing distress, difficulty functioning, and significant mental health challenges. Trauma-related presentations, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), are common, but with the right support and treatment, recovery is possible.
At Sunshine Clinic Private Hospital, we provide specialised inpatient and outpatient programs for people struggling with trauma and PTSD. Our psychiatrists, psychologists, and counsellors work closely with patients to create personalised treatment plans that address both symptoms and underlying distress, helping individuals rebuild resilience and reclaim their lives.
Types of Disorders Treated
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
Overview
BPD is characterised by intense and unstable emotions, difficulties with self-image, and challenges in maintaining relationships. People may struggle with fears of abandonment, impulsivity, or self-harming behaviours.
Causes
BPD is believed to arise from a combination of genetic factors, early life trauma, and difficulties in emotional regulation.
Prevalence in Australia
BPD affects approximately 1–4% of Australians. It is more commonly diagnosed in women, although men are often underdiagnosed.
Risk Factors
Adverse childhood experiences, exposure to abuse or neglect, family history of mental illness, and high levels of ongoing stress.
Treatment Options
Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) is the most evidence-based treatment for BPD and is offered through our outpatient programs. Mindfulness, group therapy, and creative therapies also help patients learn to regulate emotions and build resilience. Inpatient care may be recommended during times of crisis.
Avoidant Personality Disorder
Overview
Individuals with avoidant personality disorder experience extreme shyness, sensitivity to criticism, and avoidance of social situations due to fear of rejection.
Causes
Likely linked to both genetic predisposition and early negative social experiences, such as bullying or rejection.
Prevalence in Australia
Precise figures are difficult to establish, but international studies estimate avoidant personality disorder affects around 2% of the population.
Treatment Options
CBT and ACT can be highly effective in helping patients challenge negative beliefs and gradually re-engage with social situations. Outpatient programs at Sunshine Clinic provide structured support and group-based therapy to encourage confidence and connection.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Overview
This condition involves patterns of grandiosity, a constant need for admiration, and difficulties with empathy. While individuals may present with high self-confidence, underlying insecurity often drives these behaviours.
Causes
A mix of genetic vulnerabilities, early life experiences, and environmental factors.
Prevalence in Australia
Narcissistic personality disorder is estimated to affect less than 1% of the general population, though its impact on relationships and work can be significant.
Treatment Options
Therapy often focuses on building insight, improving empathy, and managing interpersonal challenges. At Sunshine Clinic, patients may engage in ACT, CBT, and mindfulness-based programs to develop more balanced coping strategies.
Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD)
Overview
OCPD is characterised by a preoccupation with order, perfectionism, and control, which can interfere with flexibility and relationships. It is distinct from obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), though the two are sometimes confused.
Causes
A combination of genetic factors, personality traits, and learned behaviours.
Prevalence in Australia
International studies suggest OCPD may affect up to 2–8% of the population, though Australian-specific figures are limited.
Treatment Options
Therapies such as CBT and mindfulness help patients develop more flexible thinking patterns. Sunshine Clinic offers both individual and group therapy programs tailored to managing perfectionism and rigidity.
Emerging Personality Disorders
Overview
In some individuals, personality disorder traits emerge in adolescence or early adulthood. These may include unstable emotions, impulsivity, or persistent difficulties in relationships. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to preventing symptoms from worsening.
Causes
Emerging personality disorders often develop from a combination of genetic risk and environmental influences, particularly early life trauma or chronic stress.
Prevalence in Australia
Research indicates that around 10% of young people may show emerging personality disorder traits. Early intervention is strongly recommended.
Treatment Options
Sunshine Clinic offers outpatient programs tailored for young people showing early signs of personality difficulties. These may include DBT skills training, mindfulness, and creative therapies to build resilience and improve emotional regulation before symptoms become entrenched.
Stabilised Personality Disorders
Overview
Some individuals living with personality disorders reach a stabilised stage, where symptoms are less severe but ongoing support is still needed. Patients may benefit from regular therapy to maintain stability, prevent relapse, and improve quality of life.
Treatment Options
Stabilised personality disorders are often managed through ongoing outpatient therapy, such as ACT, CBT, or DBT. Inpatient care may be considered during stressful life events or if symptoms escalate. Sunshine Clinic provides a supportive, structured environment to help patients maintain recovery and independence.
Why Choose Sunshine Clinic Private Hospital?
Personality disorders can be challenging, not just for the individual but also for their families. However, with the right support, patients can learn to regulate emotions, improve relationships, and lead fulfilling lives. At Sunshine Clinic Private Hospital, we provide:
- Specialist psychiatrists, psychologists, and counsellors with expertise in personality disorders
- Inpatient care for crisis stabilisation
- Outpatient day programs including DBT, CBT, ACT, and mindfulness
- Creative and expressive therapies, including art and music therapy, to support emotional healing
- Tailored support for both emerging and stabilised personality disorders
We believe that every patient deserves the chance to build a stable, meaningful life, no matter how complex their condition. Our team is here to guide patients and their families through every step of the recovery journey.
Comprehensive Private Mental Health Care in Melbourne’s West
Sunshine Clinic offers psychiatry consulting services, as well as inpatient and outpatient programs tailored to support recovery, resilience, and long-term wellbeing.