Personality Disorders
A personality disorder is a type of mental disorder in which you have a rigid and unhealthy pattern of thinking, functioning and behaving. A person with a personality disorder has trouble perceiving and relating to situations and people. This causes significant problems and limitations in relationships, social activities, work and school.
In some cases, you may not realize that you have a personality disorder because your way of thinking and behaving seems natural to you. And you may blame others for the challenges you face.
Personality disorders usually begin in the teenage years or early adulthood. There are many types of personality disorders. Some types may become less obvious throughout middle age.
Source: Mayo Clinic
Types of Personality Disorders
Antisocial Personality Disorder
Avoidant Personality Disorder
Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Borderline Personality Disorder
Symptoms
- There is a pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others occurring since age 15 years, as indicated by three or more of the following:
- Failure to conform to social norms with respect to lawful behaviors as indicated by repeatedly performing acts that are grounds for arrest
- Deceitfulness, as indicated by repeated lying, use of aliases, or conning others for personal profit or pleasure
- Impulsivity or the failure to plan ahead
- Irritability and aggressiveness, as indicated by repeated physical fights or assaults
- Reckless disregard for the safety of self or others
- Consistent irresponsibility, as indicated by repeated failure to sustain consistent work behavior or honor financial obligations
- Lack of remorse, as indicated by being indifferent to or rationalizing having hurt, mistreated, or stolen from another.
Individuals may experience variations in symptoms and severity.
Risk Factors
- The individual is at least age 18 years
- There is evidence of Conduct Disorder with onset before age 15 years
- The occurrence of antisocial behavior is not exclusively during the course of Schizophrenia or a Manic Episode
Treatment
- Medical treatment - Hospitalization
- Psychosocial treatment - Individual psychotherapy, Group therapy, Family therapy, Other psychosocial therapies
Resources
Symptoms
- Avoiding occupational activities that involve significant interpersonal contact, because of fears of criticism, disapproval, or rejection
- Unwilling to get involved with people unless certain of being liked
- Showing restraint within intimate relationships because of the fear of being shamed or ridiculed
- Preoccupied with being criticized or rejected in social situations
- Inhibited in new interpersonal situations because of feelings of inadequacy
- Viewing self as socially inept, personally unappealing, or inferior to others
- Unusually reluctant to take personal risks or to engage in any new activities because they may prove embarrassing
Individuals may experience variations in symptoms and severity.
Risk Factors
- Individuals with this personality disorder are socially inhibited, usually feel inadequate, and are overly sensitive to criticism.
Treatment
- Medical treatment
- Psychosocial treatment
- Individual psychotherapy
- Group therapy
Resources
Symptoms
- A pervasive pattern of grandiosity (in fantasy or behavior), need for admiration, and lack of empathy, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by five (or more) of the following:
- has a grandiose sense of self-importance (e.g., exaggerates achievements and talents, expects to be recognized as superior without commensurate achievements)
- is preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love.
- believes that he or she is "special" and unique and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people (or institutions)
- requires excessive admiration
- has a sense of entitlement (e.g., unreasonable expectations of especially favorable treatment or automatic compliance with his or her expectations)
- is interpersonally exploitative (e.g., takes advantage of others to achieve his or her own ends)
- lacks empathy is unwilling to recognize or identify with the feeling and needs of others
- is often envious of others or believes that others are envious of him or her 9.) shows arrogant, haughty behaviors or attitudes
Individuals may experience variations in symptoms and severity.
Treatment
- Medical treatment - Hospitalization
- Psychosocial Treatment
- Individual psychotherapy
- Group therapy
Resources
Symptoms
- Key features of OCD:
- Obsessions
- Compulsions
- Insight
- Resistance
- Shame and secrecy
- Long-lasting symptoms
Individuals may experience variations in symptoms and severity.
Risk Factors
- OCD is sometimes accompanied by depression, eating disorders, substance abuse disorder, a personality disorder, attention deficit disorder, or another of the anxiety disorders.
- There is an increased rate of OCD in people with Tourette' s syndrome.
- Other illnesses that may be linked to OCD are trichotillomania (the repeated urge to pull out scalp hair, eyelashes, or other body hair), body dysmorphic disorder (excessive preoccupation with imaginary or exaggerated defects in appearance), and hypochondriasis (the fear of having -- despite medical evaluation and reassurance - a serious disease).
Treatment
Clinical research has provided information leading to both pharmacological and behavioral treatments that can benefit the person with OCD. One patient may benefit significantly from behavior therapy, while another will benefit from pharmacotherapy. Some others may use both medication and behavior therapy. Others may begin with medication to gain control over their symptoms and then continue with behavior therapy. Which therapy to use should be decided by the individual patient in consultation with his or her therapist.
Resources
Symptoms
- Key features of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD):
- A strong fear of real or imagined abandonment and difficulty tolerating being alone
- Intense, unstable relationships that shift between idealization and devaluation
- Rapid changes in self-image, goals, and values
- Wide mood swings lasting hours to a few days
- Impulsive, risky behaviours (e.g., substance misuse, reckless driving, binge eating)
- Ongoing feelings of emptiness or identity confusion
- Difficulty managing anger, including inappropriate or intense anger
- Periods of stress-related paranoia or feeling “out of touch” with reality
Individuals may experience variations in symptoms and severity.
Risk Factors
- Increased risk of self-harm or suicidal thoughts and behaviours, particularly during periods of emotional distress
- Intense or unstable relationships, which can contribute to conflict, isolation, or loss of social supports
- Impulsive behaviours that may lead to difficulties with finances, substance use, or physical safety
- Higher rates of co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or substance use disorders
- Challenges maintaining employment, education, or housing during times of symptom escalation
- It’s important to note that many people with BPD improve significantly over time, especially with access to evidence-based therapies and consistent support. Early intervention, peer support, and trauma-informed care can greatly reduce these risks and support long-term recovery.
Treatment
The exact cause of BPD is not fully understood but may involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. People with BPD often benefit from evidence-based therapies, such as dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) or other psychotherapeutic approaches, which can help build skills in emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, and distress tolerance.
Men’s Virtual Peer Support Group
Women’s Peer Support
Virtual Friends and Family Support Group
Youth (12-17) Peer Support Group
Winnipeg – Senior’s Tea & Tales
Mixed Coffee and Chat
Mixed Bipolar Peer Support Group
Mixed Depression & Anxiety
Wellness Peer Support Group
Soul Sisters
Brandon Men’s Support Group
Selkirk – Tea & Tales
Young Adult Peer Support Group
Men’s In-Person Peer Support Group
Game Night
Brandon Rotary Villas – Tea & Tales
Minnedosa- Tea & Tales
M.A.D. Mondays
Boissevain – Tea & Tales
Coffee Talk – Wellness Support Group
Grief & Loss Support Group
Family & Friends Peer Support (Winnipeg)
Virden – Tea & Tales
One-on-One Chats with the Prairie Mountain Team
Join us every Wednesday from 6:30 – 7:30 pm for a confidential and safe place to talk. Click the link below to join, no registration needed.
This is an open group for anyone who identifies as a man,18+ living in Manitoba.
Our Women’s Peer Support group is for anyone who identifies as a woman. We welcome open, honest, and heartfelt connections and conversations and we aim to provide coping techniques and support for women struggling with their mental health.
Our in-person group now meets every Thursday from 5:30-6:30 pm, effective November 10, 2025, at 4 Fort St in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
IN PERSON
Thursdays
5:30-6:30 pm
Facilitator: Karly M & Undela U.
This group offers support to friends and family to help them deal with mood disorders diagnosed or undiagnosed and welcomes them to experience support and connection.
This group meets virtually every Tuesday from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Please click the link below to join, no registration is required.
The school year has started again, and everyone is catching up with old friends– and old enemies. If you’re 12-17 and struggle with mental health issues, we’ve got a group for you! Tuesday evenings 6:00-7:00 pm, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month are online, the rest in person at 204-83 Garry St, Winnipeg. No need to register for in-person, just come as you are and find community with other youths going through similar experiences.
For the virtual group, please email the Youth Program Coordinator (youthprogram@moodmb.ca) and they will send you the Zoom login details.
Having trouble finding the location? You can call the Youth Program Coordinator at (204) 890-4316 and they’ll help you get where you’re going.
*PLEASE NOTE: There will be no meeting on November 25th as the Coordinator will be attending a Resource Fair that day. Thank you for your understanding!
IN PERSON
2nd & 4th Tuesdays of each month (Nov 25 - CANCELLED)
6:00-7:00 PM
Facilitator: Jez Torres
ONLINE
1st & 3rd Tuesdays of each Month (Nov 4 & 18)
6:00-7:00 PM
Facilitator: Jez Torres
Our Seniors Tea & Tales is all about getting together for an afternoon tea or coffee and a light snack to share experiences and discuss a variety of topics about mental health, or simply to connect with other people in a similar age group!
This group has been meeting regularly for the past two years and is well-established. Members often bring home-baked goods to share, along with various items for our ‘Show & Tell’ segment. After initial introductions/check-in and a short break, the group does a five-minute guided meditation together. The ‘word of the week’, chosen the week before, is usually discussed and a new word is chosen. Lively discussions around group-guided topics often occur. Meetings usually wrap up with a positive affirmation or a quote containing words of wisdom. New members are always welcomed warmly!
Location: This group meets every Tuesday from 1:30 – 3:30 pm at our office at 100-4 Fort Street, Winnipeg.
IN PERSON
Tuesdays
1:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Facilitator: John, Barb & Pam
Our Mixed Coffee and Chat Group invites the community to come together to talk about anything and everything related to mental health. From discussing life’s challenges to simply shooting the breeze, it is a safe space to find support and resources to help make daily life just that much easier.
This group meets every Tuesday from 5:30 – 6:30 pm at 100-4 Fort Street in Winnipeg.
IN PERSON
Tuesdays
5:30 pm - 6:30 pm
Facilitator: Matt
The Mixed Bipolar Peer Support group is open to anyone affected by bipolar disorder, whether directly or indirectly. You don’t need a diagnosis to join, and family, friends, or anyone supporting someone with bipolar disorder are also welcome. It’s a space for support, conversation, and connection.
This group meets in-person at our Winnipeg office located at 100-4 Fort Street on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 – 7:30 pm. *NEW* A virtual offering of this group is now offered every Monday night from 6:45 – 7:45 pm. as of December 2025.
IN PERSON
Tuesdays
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Facilitator: Matt
Our Mixed Depression & Anxiety group is for anyone dealing with depression or anxiety, whether you’ve been diagnosed or not. Join us for connection, conversation, and support, along with resources to help you on your path to healing.
This group meets at our Winnipeg office located at 100-4 Fort Street on Thursday evenings from 6:30 – 7:30 pm.
IN PERSON
Thursday
6:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Facilitator: Jez
This is an online mixed group that focuses on wellness topics, addressing all mood disorders, diagnosed or undiagnosed and welcomes everyone to experience an evening of support and connection.
Let’s Talk Wellness 💬✨
Take a step toward better mental health and join our Wellness Peer Support Group! Share your story, gain support, and build connections in a judgment-free space.
🗓 Mondays
🕕 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
📍 Virtual We’re here for you—call/text 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca to register. Let’s thrive together!
Please note: There is no charge for this group and we do not meet on statutory holidays. This group meets every Monday from 6:30 – 8:00 pm.
ONLINE
Every Monday
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Facilitator: PMH Team
A community of women who care about each other and who welcome open, honest, heartfelt connections and conversations. Come join a sacred space of nonjudgmental & confidential sharing.
📅 When: Tuesdays, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
📍 Where: Now HYBRID – join us in person at our Brandon office, located at 1003 13th Street, or virtually!
Connect, share, and support one another in a safe and welcoming space. Whether you prefer the comfort of home or joining us in person, we’re here for you!
For questions or to register, call/text us at 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca.
Please note: There is no charge for this group and we do not meet on statutory holidays.
IN PERSON
Tuesday (In-Person/Virtual)
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Facilitator: Bethany
Looking for a space to connect, share, and engage with other men in Brandon? Join our Men’s Support Group for monthly sessions focused on support, camaraderie, and wellness.
This group meets monthly on the second Tuesday of the month from 6:00 – 7:00 pm in person at the MDAM office in Brandon. (No charge for this group.)
For further information, please contact the Brandon office by emailing or calling/texting:
adassist@moodmb.ca
(204) 721-2174
IN PERSON
Dec 9, 2025 (2nd Tues of the month)
6:00-7:00 pm
Facilitator: Brandon MDAM Team
Our Seniors Tea & Tales is all about coming together for an afternoon tea or coffee to share experiences and discuss a variety of topics about mental health, or simply to connect with other people in a similar age group!
Location: The Gordon Howard Centre, 384 Eveline St., Selkirk, MB. This group meets every Thursday from 1:00 – 2:30 pm. Light refreshments and snacks are provided.
No registration required.
IN PERSON
Every Thursday
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
Facilitator: Susan
It can be a strange time, transitioning to being considered a proper adult. If you’re between 18 – 28 and having a hard time navigating this period, come join our peer support group: Monday evenings 7:30-8:30; 1st and 3rd Mondays of the month are online, the rest in person at 100-4 Fort Street, Winnipeg . No registration required, come and meet your people (and maybe figure this adulting thing out)!
Having trouble finding the location? You can call the Youth Program Coordinator at (204) 890-4316 and they’ll help you get where you’re going.
IN PERSON
Every 2nd & 4th Monday (Nov 10 & 24))
7:30-8:30pm
Facilitator: Jez Torres
ONLINE
Every 1st, 3rd & 5th Monday (Nov 3 & 17)
7:30-8:30pm
Facilitator: Jez Torres
LAUNCH ONLINE MEETING
Join us every week for a confidential and safe place to talk. This is an open group for anyone who identifies as a man,18+ living in Manitoba.
This group meets every Monday from 5:30 – 6:30 pm at 100-4 Fort Street in Winnipeg.
This group is co-facilitated with Peer Connections Manitoba.
IN PERSON
Monday
5:30 - 6:30 pm at 4 Fort Street
Facilitator: Matthew C., Shawn D., and Daniel
Dive into the magic of Friday nights at MDAM – it’s Game Night!
Every Friday night, MDAM opens its doors at 6:00 pm at 100-4 Fort Street in Winnipeg for a good old-fashioned games night. *PLEASE NOTE: Game Night will be closed over the Christmas holidays (Dec 26th) to give staff and volunteers a much needed break, reopening on January 2, 2026.
Game play kicks off at 6:00 pm, carrying the excitement through until 10:00 pm. Bring along a buddy or make some new friends as we gather to play an array of games – dice, cards, and board games galore!
But here’s the deal: At MDAM, we’re all about good vibes and creating a safe and enjoyable space for everyone. Unsportsmanlike conduct or a negative attitude won’t fly here. If such behavior is observed, we’ll kindly ask you to leave. So bring your best attitude, a zest for fun, and let’s create unforgettable moments together! Join us for a night of games, giggles, and good times!
Thank you to McNally Robinson Booksellers, Across the Board Game Cafe, Victory Pints and Toad Hall Toys for their generous donation of board games. Big thank you also to our members who have donated games – Stephanie, Penny and Shawn.
Learn more about Game Night and view photos from our First Annual Farkle Tournament held in December 2024.
IN PERSON
Friday Nights
Doors open 6:00 pm, Game play 6:00 - 10:00 pm
Facilitator: Jez, John, Barb & Pam
Join us for Tea and Tales at Rotary Villas! This weekly support group offers a warm, welcoming space for seniors to connect, share stories, and support one another.
The group meets every Friday from 10:30 am – 12:00 pm at Rotary Villas, 1340 10 St., Brandon, MB.
To join or for more information, please contact adassist@moodmb.ca or (204) 721-2174.
IN PERSON
Every Friday
10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Facilitator: Lora Hay
Join us for Tea and Tales in Minnedosa! This weekly support group is a safe space for seniors to share stories, connect, and find support for the unique challenges they face. Come for the tea, stay for the tales, and leave with a sense of community.
Calling All Seniors for Tea & Tales at the Minnedosa 50+ Activity Centre!
Location: 31 Main St S, Minnedosa, MB
Time: 10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Dates: Every Wednesday
MDAM Prairie Mountain has partnered with the Minnedosa 50+ Activity Centre to offer a safe and confidential space for folks to come together! Looking to connect with others in your community? Then come join us for a morning of refreshments to connect, exchange stories and discuss a wide range of mental health topics.
For more information, please call Lora: (431) 866-4234 or (204) 721-2174.
IN PERSON
Every Wednesday
10:30 am - 12:00 pm
Facilitator: Lora Hay
Music, Art, Dance, and Drama
This group meets every Monday from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm at 204 – 83 Garry Street in Winnipeg. It’s a safe space for youth aged 12-17 to meet after school and learn about mental wellness as well as to listen to/play music, create art, dance, drama. Snacks and light refreshments are provided.
Where: 204 – 83 Garry Street in Winnipeg
E-mail: youthprogram@moodmb.ca
Phone: 204-890-4316
Pre-registration required! Please click here to complete our online registration form.
IN PERSON
Mondays
4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Facilitator: Jez Torres
We’re excited to continue our Tea and Tales Support Group in Boissevain! Join us for a morning of connection, conversation, and support as we share stories and navigate life’s challenges together.
📅 When: First Tuesday of the Month – November 4th
📍 Where: Cherry Creek Place
⏰ Time: 10:00AM to 11:00AM
This group focuses on seniors and their unique struggles, but all are welcome! Let’s come together, one story at a time.
For questions or to register, call/text us at 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca.
IN PERSON
1st Tuesday of the Month (Nov 4)
10:00 - 11:00 am
Facilitator: Lora Hay
Take a moment for yourself and join us for Coffee Talk in our new Brandon office! This new group is all about fostering wellness, sharing experiences, and simply enjoying great company.
📅 When: Every Thursday
📍 Where: Brandon Office Support Space, 1003 13th Street, Unit B Brandon, MB R7A 4E9
⏰ Time: 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Sit, sip, and connect in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. We can’t wait to see you there!
For questions or to register, call/text us at 204-721-2174 or email adassist@moodmb.ca.
IN PERSON
Every Thursday
10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Facilitator: Lora Hay
This group is dedicated to individuals processing any type of grief at any point in their lives. We understand it can be a very complicated process that people shouldn’t have to experience alone.
This group meets every Tuesday from 6:00 – 7:30 pm at 4 Fort Street and is free to join. It is co-facilitated with Peer Connections and now meets in-person weekly (formerly alternated between in-person and virtual.)
IN PERSON
Every Tuesday
6:00 - 7:30 pm
Facilitator: Peer Connections / MDAM
Seeking a confidential and caring space to connect with other family members/friends who understand your experiences? Join our group every Thursday from 6:00 – 7:00 pm for a supportive and inclusive gathering. This group alternates between in-person and virtual sessions and is co-facilitated with Peer Connections Manitoba.
For virtual meetings, please click the link below to join the meeting on Zoom (Meeting ID: 896 7025 4257 / Passcode: 370727). Alternatively, you can also join this meeting by visiting the Online Program Calendar section of the Peer Connections website.
If you have any questions or need more information, please do not hesitate to contact us.
IN PERSON
Dec 11, 2025
6:00 - 7:00 pm
Facilitator: MDAM / Peer Connections Manitoba
☕Tea and Tales Virden!!☕
We are very excited to bring Tea and Tales to Virden!
Looking for connection, conversation, and a warm cup of tea?
Join us for Tea and Tales in Virden! Come sip some tea, enjoy a few snacks, and be part of a welcoming community where stories are shared and friendships grow. 🌿✨
📍 Where: Borders Regional Library, 312-7th Avenue
🗓️When: 2nd Thursday of the Month
⏰ 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
No registration needed — just drop in!
Let’s build community, one cup at a time. 💬💚
IN PERSON
2nd Thursday of the Month
1:30 pm - 2:30 pm
Facilitator: Lora Hay
Introducing One-on-One Chats with the Prairie Mountain Team, offered through our office located in Brandon.
We’re excited to launch this new One-on-One Chat service in the Prairie Mountain region. Sometimes all you need is a few minutes to connect with someone who understands.
These are short 10–15 minute one-on-one check-ins with one of our amazing Peer Support Workers.
When: Currently offered on Mondays from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Where: Online through Zoom – Join us by clicking the Launch Meeting button
Confidentiality matters. Everything shared is private, and no one else can see that you’ve joined.
Whether you want to share what’s on your mind, check in about your week, or just need someone to listen—we’re here for you.