See your GP if you're worried you have borderline personality disorder (BPD). They may ask about your symptoms and how they're affecting your quality of life. Show
Your GP will also want to rule out other more common mental health conditions, such as depression. This will make sure there's no immediate risk to your health and wellbeing. If your GP thinks you have BPD, you may be referred to your local community mental health service. Ask if the service has experience of working with personality disorders. Community mental health teamCommunity mental health services help people with complex mental health conditions. Members of the multi-disciplinary team will assess your mental health and develop a plan of support with you. Involving your familyMany of the symptoms of BPD affect your relationships with people close to you. Teaching your family and friends about what BPD is and how it can impact on your relationship with them can help make treatment more effective. Your family and friends can look out for signs that may help them to understand when you're having a crisis. The decision to talk about your condition is yours. Talk to your mental health team about telling close family, friends and people you trust. Getting supportYour GP or mental health team can advise about any local support groups and services. Find supports and services Content supplied by the NHS and adapted for Ireland by the HSE DiagnosisPersonality disorders, including borderline personality disorder, are diagnosed based on a:
A diagnosis of borderline personality disorder is usually made in adults, not in children or teenagers. That's because what appear to be signs and symptoms of borderline personality disorder may go away as children get older and become more mature. TreatmentBorderline personality disorder is mainly treated using psychotherapy, but medication may be added. Your doctor also may recommend hospitalization if your safety is at risk. Treatment can help you learn skills to manage and cope with your condition. It's also necessary to get treated for any other mental health disorders that often occur along with borderline personality disorder, such as depression or substance misuse. With treatment, you can feel better about yourself and live a more stable, rewarding life. PsychotherapyPsychotherapy — also called talk therapy — is a fundamental treatment approach for borderline personality disorder. Your therapist may adapt the type of therapy to best meet your needs. The goals of psychotherapy are to help you:
Types of psychotherapy that have been found to be effective include:
MedicationsAlthough no drugs have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration specifically for the treatment of borderline personality disorder, certain medications may help with symptoms or co-occurring problems such as depression, impulsiveness, aggression or anxiety. Medications may include antidepressants, antipsychotics or mood-stabilizing drugs. Talk to your doctor about the benefits and side effects of medications. HospitalizationAt times, you may need more-intense treatment in a psychiatric hospital or clinic. Hospitalization may also keep you safe from self-injury or address suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Recovery takes timeLearning to manage your emotions, thoughts and behaviors takes time. Most people improve considerably, but you may always struggle with some symptoms of borderline personality disorder. You may experience times when your symptoms are better or worse. But treatment can improve your ability to function and help you feel better about yourself. You have the best chance for success when you consult a mental health provider who has experience treating borderline personality disorder. Sign up for free, and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID-19, plus expertise on managing health. To provide you with the most relevant and helpful information, and
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communications at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link in the e-mail. Coping and supportSymptoms associated with borderline personality disorder can be stressful and challenging for you and those around you. You may be aware that your emotions, thoughts and behaviors are self-destructive or damaging, yet you feel unable to manage them. In addition to getting professional treatment, you can help manage and cope with your condition if you:
Preparing for your appointmentYou may start by seeing your primary care doctor. After an initial appointment, your doctor may refer you to a mental health provider, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. Here's some information to help you prepare for your appointment. What you can doBefore your appointment, make a list of:
Take a family member or friend along, if possible. Someone who has known you for a long time may be able to share important information with the doctor or mental health provider, with your permission. Basic questions to ask your doctor or a mental health provider include:
Don't hesitate to ask questions during your appointment. What to expect from your doctorA doctor or mental health provider is likely to ask you a number of questions. Be ready to answer them to save time for topics you want to focus on. Possible questions include:
How do I find out if I have BPD?Signs and symptoms. Fear of abandonment. People with BPD are often terrified of being abandoned or left alone. ... . Unstable relationships. ... . Unclear or shifting self-image. ... . Impulsive, self-destructive behaviors. ... . Self-harm. ... . Extreme emotional swings. ... . Chronic feelings of emptiness. ... . Explosive anger.. Can you self diagnose yourself with BPD?No, you cannot diagnose yourself with BPD.
This will include an interview where you'll be asked lots of questions. The symptoms of BPD often overlap with such diagnoses of bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, depression, and anxiety.
How do I get BPD diagnosed?A licensed mental health professional—such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or clinical social worker—who is experienced in diagnosing and treating mental disorders can diagnose borderline personality disorder based on a thorough interview and a discussion about symptoms.
What can BPD be confused with?The symptoms of BPD are very broad, and some can be similar to or overlap with other mental health problems, such as:. Bipolar disorder.. Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD). Depression.. Anxiety.. Psychosis.. Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD). |