Vulnerability of personality disorder during the Covid-19 crises – a multicenter survey of treatment experiences among patients referred to treatment

Background The societal shutdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic involved mental health services for personality disorder (PD) and was introduced from 12 March 2020 in Norway. Rapid implementation of treatment modifications was required for patients typically characterized by insecure attachment and vulnerability to separation. Aim To investigate immediate reactions to the shutdown of services; alternative treatment received; and differences related to age in a clinical sample of patients with PD. Design A survey performed from June to October 2020 (after the first Covid-19 wave) among 1120 patients from 12 units offering comprehensive group-based PD programs. Results The response-rate was 12% (N = 133). Negative feelings of anxiety, sadness, and helplessness were noteworthy immediate reactions, but the dominating attitude was accommodation. Younger patients (