Description
When we hear of psychological disorders and mental health issues, most of us would instantly think of depression, anxiety, some would maybe even think of schizophrenia. This association is more than understandable, as the first two are among the most common illnesses while the latter is one of the most complex ones, and a Hollywood favorite for psychological thrillers. But what all three of these have in common is that they bring out feelings of sympathy in most, empathy in some. Most of us who engage in mental health content wish we could do something to help sufferers.
Not all mental illnesses are as lucky, though. Antisocial Personality Disorder is one among those, which are largely misunderstood illnesses. The term ‘Antisocial’ is often misused to describe an individual who prefers not to engage in too many social events or socialize a great deal. The accurate term for said description however, is asocial. Antisocial behaviors are those that harm, or lack consideration for the well-being of others. These behaviors often go against laws and norms of a particular society, and are to the detriment of others.
Symptoms
People who suffer from Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) often engage in behaviors such as breaking the law, lying and harming others, without any remorse. They may be confused with psychopaths or seen simply as terrible human beings by others. Due to the nature of this disorder and its manifestation, ASPD sufferers are rarely treated with any sympathy or empathy which one might feel for someone suffering from another disorder, like depression.
Symptoms of ASPD can begin in childhood and can be seen in behaviors like setting fires, lying often, hurting animals, etc. In adulthood, some symptoms of ASPD can be being angry often, lying and manipulating people, stealing, aggression, not caring about the safety or well-being of others, not showing any guilt or remorse for their actions. ASPD more often than not goes undiagnosed for a long time, if at all. Individuals lack a support system and other resources which might help them.
Treatment
ASPD is very difficult to treat, but people suffering can be helped, and behaviors can be kept in check. One of the main forms of treatment includes psychotherapy, and medication may also be prescribed by a psychiatrist or a doctor. Therapies like CBT and psychodynamic psychotherapy have shown promise in helping to deal with negative thoughts, increasing awareness of unconscious behaviors, and replacing them with positive thoughts and behaviors. It is hard to watch someone you love exhibit delinquent behaviors, and it is even harder to convince them to seek help, since people with ASPD have little to no insight. They do not realize the extent of their problem and do not want to get help. But counseling can help both parties deal and cope with such a tricky illness in the healthiest way. If you might be dealing with someone who has ASPD, try setting stricter boundaries, seek counseling and do what is best for you, and care for your needs first and foremost.
-Saumya Manidhar
Psychologist; B.D & Marketing Executive,
for Dharma Life Sciences
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