Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a condition characterized by difficulties regulating emotion. This means that people who experience BPD feel emotions intensely and for extended periods of time, and it is harder for them to return to a stable baseline after an emotionally triggering event. Show
This difficulty can lead to impulsivity, poor self-image, stormy relationships and intense emotional responses to stressors. Struggling with self-regulation can also result in dangerous behaviors such as self-harm (e.g. cutting). It’s estimated that 1.4% of the adult U.S. population experiences BPD. Nearly 75% of people diagnosed with BPD are women. Recent research suggests that men may be equally affected by BPD, but are commonly misdiagnosed with PTSD or depression. SymptomsPeople with BPD experience wide mood swings and can feel a great sense of instability and insecurity. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual diagnostic framework, some key signs and symptoms may include:
CausesThe causes of BPD are not fully understood, but scientists agree that it is the result of a combination of factors, including:
DiagnosisThere is no definitive medical test to diagnose BPD, and a diagnosis is not based on one specific sign or symptom. BPD is best diagnosed by a mental health professional following a comprehensive clinical interview that may include talking with previous clinicians, reviewing previous medical evaluations and, when appropriate, interviews with friends and family. TreatmentAn effective treatment plan should include your preferences while also addressing any other co-existing conditions you may have. Examples of treatment options include psychotherapy; medications; and group, peer and family support. The overarching goal of treatment is for a person with BPD to increasingly self-direct their own treatment plan as they learn what works and what doesn’t.
Related ConditionsBPD can be difficult to diagnose and treat, and successful treatment includes addressing any other conditions a person might have. Many with BPD also experience additional conditions like:
Reviewed December 2017 What are the 5 symptoms of BPD?In order to be diagnosed with BPD, you must show signs of at least five of these symptoms.. Fear of abandonment. ... . Unstable relationships. ... . Unclear or shifting self-image. ... . Impulsive, self-destructive behaviors. ... . Self-harm.. What are the 3 main characteristics of a personality disorder?Personality disorders are characterized by patterns of thinking, feeling, behaving, and interacting that deviate from cultural expectations and cause significant distress and problems functioning.
Which personality disorder is characterized by an unstable or disorganized identity and is accompanied with odd beliefs perceptions and self presentation?Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). (2020).
What is borderline personality disorder and what is known about its causes?Environmental factors
being a victim of emotional, physical or sexual abuse. being exposed to long-term fear or distress as a child. being neglected by 1 or both parents. growing up with another family member who had a serious mental health condition, such as bipolar disorder or a drink or drug misuse problem.
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