Published November 22, 2023

Emerging Personality Disorders

3 min read

What are Emerging Personality Disorders?

Emerging personality disorders refer to early patterns of emotional, behavioural and relational difficulties that may develop during adolescence or early adulthood. These patterns can affect how a young person experiences emotions, relationships and their sense of self.

It is normal for children and teenagers to go through periods of change, including mood swings, identity exploration and challenges in relationships. However, when these difficulties become more intense, persistent or begin to impact daily life, it may indicate emerging patterns that would benefit from specialist support.

These difficulties can include challenges with emotional dysregulation, where emotions feel overwhelming or difficult to control. In some cases, these early patterns may later develop into conditions such as Borderline Personality Disorder, although early support can help reduce this risk.

These difficulties can be linked to a range of factors, including temperament, early experiences, stress, or challenges in relationships. There is rarely a single cause, and these patterns are not the result of poor parenting or something that anyone has done wrong.

Early understanding and support can make a meaningful difference, helping young people develop healthier ways of managing emotions and building relationships.

Signs & Symptoms of Emerging Personality Disorders

Every young person is different, but signs that may be helpful to look out for include:

  • Intense or rapidly changing emotions
  • Difficulty managing frustration, anger or distress
  • Ongoing conflict in friendships or family relationships
  • Strong fear of rejection or being abandoned
  • Uncertainty about identity or sense of self
  • Impulsive or risk-taking behaviours
  • Periods of feeling empty, withdrawn or disconnected
  • Sensitivity to criticism or perceived rejection
  • Difficulty trusting others
  • Self-harm or thoughts of self-harm

These experiences can feel overwhelming for both young people and their families, but with the right support, positive change is possible.

Private Treatment for Emerging Personality Disorders in London and the UK

At London Psychiatry Clinic, we offer specialist assessment and support for emerging personality difficulties in adolescents and young adults. In our clinic, we take a careful, compassionate and developmentally informed approach, recognising how important early intervention can be.

We work closely with both young people and their families, helping parents understand what may be happening and how best to support their child. Our focus is on building emotional awareness, improving coping strategies and strengthening relationships over time.

Depending on your child’s needs, treatment may include:

  • Psychoeducation to help both you and your child understand emotional patterns and behaviours
  • Talking therapy to support emotional regulation and coping skills
  • Family guidance and support to improve communication and understanding
  • Medication, where appropriate, to support associated symptoms such as anxiety or low mood/depression
  • Lifestyle and wellbeing strategies to support stability and development

Our aim is to provide early, supportive intervention that helps young people feel more secure and better equipped to manage their emotions as they grow.

As well as appointments in our London clinic, we also offer online therapy, so you and your child can access care from the comfort of your home.

Find the best kind of treatment for emerging personality disorders. 

If you are concerned about your child or a young person in your care, we are here to help. Speak with us today to explore assessment and support options.

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Specialists who treat
Emerging Personality Disorders

Dr Harry Reid

Dr Harry Reid

Consultant General Adult Psychiatrist

Dr Harry Reid is a Consultant Psychiatrist specialising in general adult mental health and addictions. He supports people with alcohol, drug, and behavioural addictions with expert, non-judgemental care.

Substance (drug) addictionPersonality disordersAnxiety in Adults
Online and in person
Dr Sumi Ratnam

Dr Sumi Ratnam

Adult Forensic Psychiatrist

I'm Dr Sumi Ratnam, a Consultant Forensic Psychiatrist registered with the Royal College of Psychiatrists, specialising in women's mental health, trauma, PTSD, and medico-legal reports.

Anger managementAnxiety in AdultsBereavement, Grief and Loss
Dr Omar Atta

Dr Omar Atta

Consultant Psychiatrist

I'm Dr Omar Atta, a Consultant Psychiatrist registered with the Royal College of Psychiatrists, specialising in addiction psychiatry, dual diagnosis, ADHD, and autism assessments.

ADHD in AdultsAutism Spectrum ConditionAlcohol addiction
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right specialist for you?

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