Many people with personality disorders are able to continue their lives normally. Because individuals with personality disorders are often unaware of their illness, they generally do not seek treatment on their own. They are usually brought to treatment by those around them, such as family or friends, when they cause harm to others. Except for certain groups, the number of patients who seek medical help on their own initiative is quite low. As a result, many patients remain untreated.

Personality disorder is a condition requiring correction of ingrained behavioral patterns. Because it is impossible for a person to change years of ingrained behavior quickly, the treatment process can be lengthy. The patient's willingness to receive treatment and acceptance of the process are crucial for successful therapy.

The main component of treatment for personality disorders is psychotherapy. The method of psychotherapy may vary depending on the type of personality disorder. Medication may be added to the psychotherapy process when necessary. In psychotherapy, the primary goal is to assess and modify maladaptive thought patterns and learn new thought and behavioral patterns. Psychotherapy also aims to improve coping skills and interpersonal relationship skills. The psychotherapy process described here is a long and continuous one.