Charles Maddix, APRN, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Apr 12, 2024
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex disorder that has increasingly been in the spotlight of mental health. With intense emotions, unstable relationships, and distorted self-image at its core; it affects millions around the world. This article will explain BPD's nature, identify the signs and symptoms, as well as explore multiple treatment options available to give hope and knowledge to those who have this difficult disorder.
The Beast That Is Borderline Personality Disorder
Characterized by a pervasive pattern of instability collectively displayed in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and emotions; Borderline Personality Disorder is a condition that makes individuals easily lose control of their mood. These episodes consist of rapid emotions like anger, depression or anxiety that can last between hours up to days. It doesn't take much for these feelings to bubble up either since they are usually triggered by something that happens with other people like abandonment or rejection concerns. Even though this may sound somewhat relatable to mood disorders where emotional responses feel off compared to what’s happened – for BPD patients these reactions feel justified as it goes through them making it very challenging for them to understand themselves.
Signs And Symptoms Of Borderline Personality Disorder
Spotting the signs early on is an important step towards diagnosis and treatment. Here are some common symptoms you should be aware of:
Intense Emotional Swings: A person might go from feeling okay one minute then suddenly being extremely sad, angry or anxious within hours or even days.
Fear Of Abandonment: People with BPD often fear being left alone even over minor things like having friends leaving where they physically can’t bear the feeling.
Unstable Relationships: Relationships tend to always be on high gears when a person falls deeply in love with someone soon after which they fall into intense rage or hate towards them.
Unclear Or Shifting Self-Image: BPD patients might drastically change their ambitions, career goals and even values or morals based on how they feel about themselves.
Impulsive Behaviors: Reckless driving, binge eating, substance abuse or simply blowing away money is a common practice in situations where they don’t think about the consequences of their actions.
Self-Harm And Suicidal Behavior: As heartbreaking as it sounds this is a very common symptom of those with BPD who often express strong emotional pain through these ways.
Chronic Feelings Of Emptiness: The individual can describe feeling empty inside not being able to find meaning or satisfaction in life.
Explosive Anger: Losing control over anger or having extreme reactions towards minor incidents can be a sign of BPD.
Feeling Detached Or Dissociative: When faced with stressful situations some may feel disconnected from themselves like they’ve lost touch with reality which is known as dissociation.
Can Borderline Personality Disorder Be Treated?
Although BPD is seen as an incurable condition there are effective treatment options that'll help patients live fulfilling lives. Treatment usually involves a cocktail of psychotherapy, medication and support groups.
Psychotherap
When it comes to treating BPD therapists play a crucial role since they are able to effectively guide them through the process. Methods such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Schema Therapy have been proven effective methods. DBT in particular focuses on teaching coping mechanisms to manage emotions especially when faced with self-harming behaviors; subsequently improving relationships.
Medication
Though there isn’t any specific medication for treating BPD, antidepressants, mood stabilizers and antipsychotics can be prescribed to control certain symptoms including depression, mood swings or impulsivity.
Support Groups
Support groups provide individuals suffering from BPD safe spaces where they can openly share experiences without fear of being judged. By offering support and allowing them to learn from others going through similar challenges they play an important role in their lives.
Living with Borderline Personality Disorder
Being troubled by BPD can be tough. However, if you get the right treatment and support, there’s a chance you might see the light at the end of the tunnel. But first you must understand this disorder, recognize its symptoms, and seek professional help.
Conclusion
Borderline Personality Disorder is about as complex as they come. It strikes an individual in every corner of their life. Although it sounds pretty grim, people impacted by the condition are able to lead meaningful lives through awareness, early diagnosis, and treatment. If this is something that affects you or someone close to you
