In our lifetimes, we come across certain peculiar personalities who woo us with how narcissistic they are. Well, if you haven’t I am pretty sure that you have come across such characters in a movie perhaps or a novel. That dramatic and theatrical character who expects everything to revolve around them and things to go their way. They mostly walk with a crowd and often seek people’s approval in order for them to feel fulfilled. Mostly it’s the antagonist in the story, their behavior might give you the “ick” feeling. In another case, you could be so wrapped up in yourself and not realize it. Your friends and family don’t know how to approach you or they can already preempt your reaction because you’re the epitome of drama. News flash! You might be suffering from Histrionic Personality Disorder which is rare and affects about 1% of the population according to researchers.

Histrionic Personality Disorder is a mental health condition in which the patient has unstable emotions and a distorted self-image and an overwhelming desire to be noticed. Patients of this disorder tend to be dramatic to get attraction. They are caught up in this bubble where they assume that everything should be about them. In most cases, their self esteem solely depends on other’s approval. The signs and symptoms include; the desire to be the center of attraction, shallow emotions, overly dramatic and embarrass those closest to them, persistently flirtatious and charming even with strangers, are overly concerned with appearance, they are gullible and easily influenced, have a difficult time maintaining relationships and only form fake and shallow ones, and they are constantly seeking reassurance and approval from others.

Histrionic Personality Disorder is caused by genetics. It can be inherited if a family member suffered from this disorder. Another cause is childhood trauma like child abuse or death of a loved. The parenting style also contribute. The disorder can be diagnosed in adulthood but if you focus on the symptoms, it’s easy to identify a patient. Some complications associated with this disorder are; somatic symptom disorder in which the individual has excessive thoughts, feelings and behaviors relating to the physical symptoms, panic attacks and conversion disorders. There are various treatments for this disorder which include; group therapy, psycho-dynamic psychotherapy, supportive psychotherapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy. It’s not just in your nature to be overly dramatic. Do something about it and enjoy being a regular person, setting aside the drama and theatrics. Welcome to the mundane side of life. Trust the process!

Ps. Just Saying.




























