What is Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a mental illness that affects how you think, feel, and act. People with BPD often have unstable relationships, intense emotions, and poor self-image. They may also engage in self-harm or suicidal behavior.
BPD is a serious mental illness, but it is treatable. With therapy and medication, people with BPD can learn to manage their symptoms and live healthy, productive lives.
Symptoms of BPD
The symptoms of BPD can vary from person to person. Some people may only have a few symptoms, while others may have many. The most common symptoms of BPD include:
Unstable relationships: People with BPD often have intense, unstable relationships. They may idealize someone one day and then devalue them the next. They may also have difficulty trusting others and may fear abandonment.
Intense emotions: People with BPD often experience intense emotions, such as anger, sadness, and anxiety. These emotions can be difficult to control and can lead to impulsive behavior.
Poor self-image: People with BPD often have a poor self-image. They may feel worthless, unlovable, or like they are a burden to others.
Self-harm or suicidal behavior: People with BPD are at risk for self-harm or suicidal behavior. They may cut, burn, or otherwise harm themselves in an attempt to cope with their emotions. They may also have thoughts of suicide.
Causes of BPD
The exact cause of BPD is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. People who have a family history of mental illness, especially mood disorders, are at an increased risk for developing BPD. Environmental factors that may contribute to the development of BPD include childhood trauma, abuse, or neglect.
Treatment for BPD
BPD is treatable. With therapy and medication, people with BPD can learn to manage their symptoms and live healthy, productive lives.
The most effective treatment for BPD is dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). DBT is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy that teaches people with BPD how to regulate their emotions, tolerate distress, and improve their relationships. DBT is a long-term treatment, but it can be very effective in helping people with BPD manage their symptoms.
Medication can also be helpful in treating the symptoms of BPD. Antidepressants can help to reduce anxiety and depression. Mood stabilizers can help to regulate emotions. And anti-psychotics can help to reduce impulsivity and self-harm.
Living with BPD
If you have BPD, it's important to remember that you're not alone. There are many people who understand what you're going through and can help you. There are also many resources available to help you cope with BPD, including:
Therapy
Medication
Support groups
Online resources
If you think you may have BPD, it's important to see a doctor or mental health professional. They can help you to get the diagnosis and treatment you need.