From the Research
Treatment for histrionic personality disorder primarily involves psychotherapy, with clarification-oriented psychotherapy being a promising approach, as shown in a recent study published in 2023 1. The most effective treatment plan should prioritize the patient's willingness to recognize problematic patterns and commit to the often challenging process of behavioral change. Some key points to consider in the treatment of histrionic personality disorder include:
- Long-term psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps patients identify and change problematic thought patterns and behaviors
- Psychodynamic therapy to help individuals understand unconscious motivations and develop healthier coping mechanisms
- Group therapy to practice interpersonal skills and receive feedback in a controlled environment
- Family therapy to address relationship dynamics and improve communication While no medications directly treat the personality disorder itself, certain symptoms like depression or anxiety might be managed with antidepressants (such as SSRIs like fluoxetine or sertraline) or anti-anxiety medications (such as buspirone) as prescribed by a psychiatrist. A study published in 2023 found that improvements in relationship processes of patients and therapists were systematically related to outcome, highlighting the importance of the therapeutic relationship in treating histrionic personality disorder 1. Other studies have also shown the effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy and psychodynamic psychotherapy in treating various mental disorders, including personality disorders 2. However, the most recent and highest quality study on the treatment of histrionic personality disorder suggests that clarification-oriented psychotherapy is a promising approach, and this should be considered as the primary treatment option.