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Talk To a BPD Therapist Now
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Learn what you need to know if you have been diagnosed or want to get evaluated for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). This page will cover symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatments. Our BPD therapists can help you or a loved one live a fulfilling life.
Borderline personality disorder (often called by its abreviation - BPD) is a mental illness that makes it harder manage interpersonal relationships, relationship with self, and emotions. People with BPD may experience mood swings, impulsive behavior, and self-harm.
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is one of the most common personality disorders diagnosed. It is often accompanied by difficulty regulating emotions and controlling impulses. On the surface, this looks like intense mood swings, reckless behavior, self-injury, intense anger, paranoid thoughts, feelings of emptiness, and difficulty maintaining life's components. Dual diagnosis with substance abuse is also common among Individuals with BPD. We are not exactly sure what the cause of BPD is. Industry experts agree that genetic, social, and cultural forces are at play.
Mood swings are a core symptom of BPD. Emotional regulation can cause these intense and rapidly changing emotions. To the individual who is suffering from BPD, these feelings can feel uncontrollable. The shift in mood could occur in minutes or hours and range from euphoria to despair.
One way that upbringing can affect symptoms of BPD is through a paralyzing fear of abandonment. This fear is often rooted in childhood traumas, bonds, and relationships. In adulthood, this can lead to heightened sensitivity in relationships, anxiety, emotional distress, and drastic efforts to avoid rejections. Understanding these patterns can help both the fear of abandonment and the positive relationships in the individual's life.
Those suffering from BPD may experience a feeling of emptiness that is persistent and described as being "disconnected" from themselves and the world around them. This emptiness can be at the root of why those suffering from borderline will try and fill the void through risky or self-destructive behavior.
Borderline Personality Disorder can impact relationships in a cyclical fashion, which often creates a cycle of connection and conflict. Individuals with BPD may initially idealize someone, but even minor perceived shortcomings can lead to sudden devaluation. This cycle is called "Idealization & Devaluation," resulting in emotional turmoil for both parties in the relationship. Chronic fears of abandonment, mood swings, and impulsive behaviors often cause strain on the relationship. Patterns of idealization and devaluation can strain even the closest relationships.
When a relationship (of any capacity) starts, someone with BPD may idealize them. This person comes across as nearly perfect and capable of fulfilling their needs. In turn, this leads to an intense attachment that oftentimes is premature and unhealthy. The individual with BPD may become overly dependent on the other person and need constant validation. The connection may seem strong initially, but it is sustainable and usually leads to disappointment and the next phase - devaluation.
A devaluation phase is typical as the relationship continues, where the person is not what they seemed. They are flawed, harmful, or neglectful. The devaluation phase is activated if an unmet expectation or fears of abandonment arise. This manifests in harsh criticism, accusation, and silent treatment. Once these two phases go back and forth, you are in a cycle of idealization and devaluation, causing instability, conflicts, and ultimately breaking down the relationship.
Fear of abandonment is an underlying cause of a lot of these patterns. What someone without BPD would see as a slight misunderstanding could cause anxiety, feelings of rejection, and anxiety for someone with BPD. This may look like desperate attempts to prevent abandonment. These behaviors often include excessive calls or messages, or the opposite, pushing the other person away before they get abandoned.
The other relationship that BPD can impact is the relationship with self. Those with BPD may display impulsive or self-destructive behaviors. Many times, this includes substance abuse, which is why we offer our Dual Diagnosis Program. Other self-destructive behaviors include excessive spending, unsafe sex, self-harm, and different coping mechanisms for managing the emotional toll of BPD. Examples of self-destructive behaviors include cutting, neglecting personal hygiene, substance abuse, disordered eating patterns, chronic tardiness at work, self-sabotage in professional or personal relationships, and compulsive gambling.
Self-harm is a common and concerning behavioral symptom of BPD. Acts of self-injury (such as cutting, burning, or hitting oneself) are often used as a way to cope with overwhelming emotions or to feel a sense of control amidst emotional chaos. For some, self-harm provides a temporary release of emotional pain or a physical distraction from emotional distress. While self-injury may not always indicate a desire to end one's life, it can have serious physical and psychological consequences and often signals a need for urgent support and intervention.
When someone with BPD is suffering from their emotions and has no control over them, they try to regain control with self-harm. Many times, it is to feel a sense of control when cutting, burning, or hitting oneself. For some, it provides a release of pain - often emotional pain. Although a lot of self-injury cases are not linked to suicide ideation, they can have physical and emotional consequences. This is for some cases, but other forms of self-harm come with suicidal ideation.
Suicide rates have been climbing as a whole, but they are even more prevalent among the BPD population. Other BPD symptoms, such as emotional instability and hopelessness, can lead to suicidal thoughts. Early intervention and daily mental health practices can help prevent suicidal ideation. If you need someone to talk to, you can call our office at (561) 123-4567 or the National Suicide Hotline at 988. You can also reach the crisis text line by texting MHA to 741741
There are short-term and long-term consequences when BPD symptoms are left untreated, and they can have a significant impact. The longer BPD is untreated, the deeper the cycles become, making it more challenging to treat. Early intervention is key. Day-to-day life can be much more difficult regarding employment, education, responsibilities, and relationships. The impulsivity and emotional toll BPD can cause make it hard for someone with BPD to be able to have a hold of these life components. When BPD is left untreated, mood swings, anxiety, and the feeling of emptiness are almost unmanageable.
If BPD is left untreated for a long time, the symptoms can compound. Emotional distress can lead to depression, anxiety, and PTSD. People with untreated BPD are also at higher risk for substance use disorders, self-harm, and suicide. In regards to long-term consequences, suicide is particularly concerning, with studies showing that individuals with untreated BPD are more likely to attempt suicide than those in treatment.
Living with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) presents significant challenges, but developing healthy coping mechanisms can empower individuals to manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. Effective coping strategies involve a combination of building a support network, engaging in self-care practices, and, when appropriate, utilizing medical and therapeutic interventions.
BPD itself doesn't have a cure or even specific treatment; however, symptoms are managed so the individual suffering from BPD can lead a healthy and fulfilling life. When someone combines a healthy support network and coping strategies and utilizes a medical and therapeutic staff, they can live a considerably happier life.
For those who have BPD, a support network is vital. It offers a sense of connection and helps friends and family members become educated on BPD. That education can offer understanding in moments. Where there was no understanding before, mental health professionals, including therapists at North Palm Beach, understand the critical role that support groups and Safe Spaces offer to those with BPD.
Practices such as mindfulness meditation, breathing, and journaling are powerful tools at our fingertips daily that help manage emotions... Practices give those with BPD more awareness of their emotions, which enables them to be less overwhelmed by them and fosters a greater sense of control. Undefined. Journaling. Compliments mindfulness practices by providing a way to process thoughts, emotions, and triggers. And progress. Writing down thoughts and feelings has been proven to help those with BPB gain insight into their behaviors and patterns and help develop healthier ones.
Therapists often recommend some form of regular physical activity to release endorphins and boost the moods of those suffering from BPD. Activities such as weight lifting, sports, or something less impactful, such as yoga or walking, can be a healthy outlet to release energy and help individuals feel more in control of their lives.
There isn't a BPD medication. But. Some prescriptions are commonly prescribed. To those with BPD for their symptoms such as mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Medication can be in the form of mood stabilizers, antidepressants, or antipsychotics. In a treatment plan, these medications are not a cure for BPD itself, but they do provide day-to-day relief. And help those with BPD live healthier and more fulfilling lives.
Therapy for BPD? Therapy is the cornerstone of a treatment plan and is the foundation that helps those suffering from BPD improve their symptoms, relationships, and overall quality of life. Several therapeutic approaches are common, but three seem to be the most common and effective: dialect, behavioral therapy, and personalized therapy plans.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan, is one of the most effective treatments for BPD. DBT combines cognitive behavioral techniques with mindfulness to help those suffering from BPD regulate emotions and build. Healthier interpersonal relationships, undefined. The structure of DBT focuses on teaching practical skills in four main areas. Our emotional regulations. Our distress tolerance. Are interpersonal effectiveness and mindfulness. Group and individual therapy sessions work together. For a supportive environment that provides the skills needed to thrive after the program
DBT combines cognitive behavioral techniques with mindfulness to help those suffering from BPD regulate emotions and build. Healthier interpersonal relationships, undefined. The structure of DBT focuses on teaching practical skills in four main areas. Our emotional regulations. Our distress tolerance. Are interpersonal effectiveness and mindfulness. Group and individual therapy sessions work together for a supportive environment that provides the skills needed to thrive after the program.
No two individuals with BPD are exactly alike, and neither can their treatment plans... When treating BPD, you must have a therapist who is willing. To address each person's unique needs and symptoms, depending on the individual's preferences and circumstances. Able to develop a plan that includes individual, group, and family therapy. The life skills for. Once they leave the program, NPB therapy offers more than symptom management. We help those with BPD. Live a more fulfilling life with healthier relationships. And. A higher happiness level.
Choosing the right therapist is a foundational step in your therapeutic journey. Getting a hold of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is possible, but only with the right therapist taking the correct therapeutic approaches. We highly recommend seeking a therapist that uses evidenced-based techniques such as DBT, and CBT and has BPD-specific training.
From a personality standpoint, we recommend a therapist who demonstrates empathy, patience, and a nonjudgmental approach. These qualities are important for any therapy session as they create a supportive and safe environment, but they are especially true for BPD.
We recommend avoiding any therapists who do not have personality disorder experience. At times, therapists who are not knowledgeable may dismiss symptoms as unimportant. If you have BPD, it is critical that you have a personalized therapy plan and your therapist is willing to collaborate for long-term success.
Feeling understood, respected, and supported by your therapist makes all the difference when treating BPD. By choosing NPB Recovery, you are choosing to manage your BPD symptoms with a specialized professional who understands the complexities of BPD. NPB provides the therapeutic alliance to heal and build a more stable life.
BPD is a mental health condition characterized by intense emotions, unstable relationships, and a distorted self-image. It affects how individuals feel about themselves and interact with others, often requiring professional therapy to manage.
BPD affects approximately 1.4% of U.S. adults, though the number may be higher due to misdiagnoses.
Diagnosis involves an evaluation, a medical history review, and meeting at least five diagnostic criteria for BPD. Contact one of our BPD therapists for an accurate diagnosis.
Statistics based on gender regarding BPD is a bit misleading. It is more commonly diagnosed in women, although it is often underdiagnosed in men. Therapists play a crucial role in addressing this bias.
Symptoms include emotional dysregulation, impulsive behavior, fear of abandonment, self-harm, and difficulty maintaining relationships.
BPD is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, trauma, and differences in brain chemistry.
BPD is treatable with therapeutic approaches such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mentalization-Based Treatment (MBT), and Transference-Focused Psychotherapy (TFP). Finding the right therapist is essential for recovery.
There isn't a BPD specific medication, but those with BPD commonly have medications for co-occurring disorders such as depression and anxiety.
Group therapy helps build a support network and develop the necessary interpersonal skills those with BPD need. Together we develop emotional regulation strategies, learn to identify triggers, and share our successes.
Absolutely. With proper therapy and treatment plans, many people with BPD live high-functioning, fulfilling lives. We recommend checking out our blog post - Celebrities with BPD
Conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorder, and eating disorders often co-occur with BPD. Therapists address these in conjunction with BPD treatment.
Resources include NPB Recovery’s BPD program, organizations like NEABPD, and DBT, MBT, and TFP therapies.
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Take the first step towards reclaiming your happiness and well-being. Call our therapists that specializes in BPD and embark on your journey towards better days.
