As Part of Our Client-First Approach, Enjoy 50% Off Your First Session to Find the Right Fit
Wholesome Psychology logo

Managing Histrionic Personality Disorder

Learn how to understand and manage HPD with therapy that empowers you to build healthier relationships and emotional stability.

Histrionic Personality Disorder

Canadian flag
Wholesome Psychology, Alberta, CA
Author: wholesome
Date: November 30, 2024

Understanding Histrionic Personality Disorder

Histrionic Personality Disorder (HPD) is a mental health condition that falls under the category of personality disorders. These disorders are marked by long-standing patterns of behavior, thinking, and emotions that significantly affect a person's ability to function in daily life and maintain healthy relationships. Individuals with personality disorders often face challenges in managing their emotions and interactions with others, which can negatively impact various aspects of their lives.

Personality disorders are typically classified into three clusters based on their core traits:

  • Cluster A: Odd or eccentric behaviors
  • Cluster B: Dramatic or emotional behaviors (where HPD is categorized)
  • Cluster C: Anxious or fearful behaviors

What is Histrionic Personality Disorder?

Histrionic Personality Disorder is a condition characterized by an overwhelming need for attention and approval from others. Individuals with HPD often engage in dramatic or exaggerated behavior to keep themselves in the spotlight. This can manifest through manipulation of situations or people in their lives, resulting in strained or superficial relationships, as friends and loved ones may tire of the attention-seeking behavior.

Signs and Symptoms of Histrionic Personality Disorder

The signs of HPD can vary, but common symptoms include:

  • A strong desire for attention and approval from others
  • Low self-esteem and a tendency to rely on others for validation
  • Exaggerated or theatrical expressions of emotions
  • Using physical appearance to gain attention or admiration
  • Inappropriate or impulsive sexual behavior
  • Distorted views of personal relationships, often believing they are more intimate than they truly are

When to Seek Help

People with Histrionic Personality Disorder often appear outgoing and social, and may not seem distressed by their behavior. However, those experiencing the disorder know how exhausting it can be to constantly "perform" for others and maintain a facade of being the center of attention. Over time, it can become isolating when relationships feel shallow or when others begin to distance themselves. If you recognize these patterns in your own life and feel overwhelmed by them, seeking help can provide you with the support and tools to manage your symptoms effectively.

Treatment for Histrionic Personality Disorder

Effective treatment for Histrionic Personality Disorder typically involves psychotherapy, as it helps individuals understand the underlying causes of their behavior and work toward healthier emotional regulation. Common therapeutic approaches for HPD include:

  • Behavioral Therapy: This approach focuses on changing problematic behaviors by examining the sociocultural and environmental factors that influence them. It emphasizes practical strategies to address current issues rather than deep unconscious processes.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and beliefs, which in turn influence their behavior and perceptions of themselves and others.
  • Emotionally Focused Therapy: This therapy explores emotional intelligence and how emotions impact relationships. It helps individuals build stronger, more secure connections by better understanding how actions affect others.
  • Person-Centered Therapy: This approach believes that individuals are the experts on their own experiences. Therapists guide clients toward self-discovery, helping them resolve their own problems with support and encouragement.
  • Mindfulness Therapy: Mindfulness techniques help individuals regulate their emotions and stay present in the moment, breaking free from negative thought patterns and cultivating emotional resilience.
  • Solution-Focused Therapy: This therapy empowers individuals to find practical solutions to their problems, emphasizing their inherent strengths and resilience.
  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Similar to CBT, DBT places a strong emphasis on emotional regulation and relationship-building skills, helping individuals cope with stress and mental health challenges.

Each individual's treatment plan will vary based on their unique needs. An initial assessment will allow you and your therapist to determine the best therapeutic approach to address your specific challenges and goals.

How Therapy Can Help

At Wholesome Psychology, we are committed to supporting you on your journey toward emotional well-being. Our therapists are trained and certified to provide personalized care that addresses your unique needs. Through therapy, we can help you:

  • Build your confidence and self-esteem
  • Develop healthier, more fulfilling relationships
  • Gain insight into the patterns of behavior that contribute to your distress
  • Learn coping strategies to manage your emotional needs in healthier ways
  • Work towards long-term emotional stability and self-assurance

If you're ready to take the first step toward healing, our therapists are here to guide you. Contact us today to learn more about how therapy can help you understand and manage your Histrionic Personality Disorder, and to find the support you need to lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Contact us to schedule your consultation or get more information on how we can help you on your journey to mental wellness.

Schedule Your Session

Need Support? Book Online Anytime! At Wholesome, we offer personalized counseling for children, youth, adults, couples, and families.

Our dedicated therapists are here to provide you with a safe and tailored therapeutic experience.
Book Now

Our Therapists

Meet Our Therapists: Discover the right fit for your journey. At Wholesome, we believe that the therapeutic relationship is key to your healing.
Explore our team of compassionate and experienced therapists, each bringing unique skills and specialties to support your specific needs. Click below to learn more about our team and find the right match for you.
Show Therapists
crossmenu