Managing mood disorders and comorbid personality disorders.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW To examine the influence of personality disorder comorbidity on the general treatment of mood disorders. RECENT FINDINGS Personality disorders generally have a negative influence on outcome of mood disorders, both unipolar and bipolar. When the personality features are addressed, however, the outcome is less negative. Recent studies suggest a special role for psychological and educational therapies in the treatment of these comorbid disorders. SUMMARY The assessment of, and attention to, the management of personality disorder as well as concurrent mood disorder may improve outcome.