Many people have at least a passing understanding of certain personality disorders: someone may call another person a "narcissist" or a "sociopath," and while they may not know the details, they get an idea of what these disorders mean. But what is borderline personality disorder? While no more or less complex than other personality disorders, the lack of a specific recognizable "behavior" makes it far less understood by the general population.
According to the American Psychiatric Association, borderline personality disorder is a mental illness that affects a person’s ability to regulate their emotions, leading to impulsivity, self-image issues, and strained relationships. It is a serious mental illness with severe symptoms that can impact daily life and relationships.
Personality disorders, including borderline personality disorder, are characterized by a pattern of unstable relationships, intense fears of being abandoned, impulsive behavior, and extreme emotions. Borderline personality disorder is one of 10 personality disorders identified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR).
People with borderline personality disorder may experience intense mood swings, an unstable self-image, and unstable relationships. Other common symptoms of borderline personality disorder include:
Symptoms can vary in severity, frequency, and duration and may include self-harming and suicidal behavior.
Researchers are unsure what causes borderline personality disorder, but genetic, environmental, and social risk factors may contribute to developing this condition.
Some of these factors may include a family history of mental disorder, experiencing childhood trauma including abuse or neglect, and social isolation. People with other mental health conditions such as depression or anxiety can also be at greater risk of developing borderline personality disorder.
A licensed mental health professional diagnoses borderline personality disorder based on a thorough interview and discussion of symptoms, which are evaluated against the criteria laid out in the current diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM-5). A medical exam can help rule out other possible causes of symptoms.
This disorder is usually diagnosed in late adolescence or early adulthood but may be diagnosed in younger individuals if symptoms are severe and persistent. A careful and thorough medical history, including family medical histories, is also important in diagnosis.
Borderline personality disorder is typically treated with evidence-based therapies, such as psychotherapy and dialectical behavior therapy. Medications may be used to treat specific symptoms, such as mood swings or depression.
Borderline personality disorder treated with medication also typically involves talk therapy with a licensed mental health professional. Treatment is often long-term and requires patience and support from loved ones.
Psychotherapy, also known as “talk therapy,” is the first-line treatment for borderline personality disorder. Most psychotherapy occurs with a licensed mental health professional in one-on-one sessions or group settings and may include one or more therapeutic approaches like dialectical behavioral therapy.
A medical provider or mental health professional may also recommend group therapy sessions. Group sessions can help individuals with borderline personality disorder interact with others and express themselves effectively.
In certain cases, medications may also be used to treat symptoms or co-occurring mental disorders, such as bipolar disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder.
Borderline personality disorder can negatively impact relationships, jobs, school, and social activities. It can also lead to other mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety disorders. Individuals with borderline personality disorder may experience intense fear of abandonment, leading to mood swings, anger, and impulsiveness.
Intense emotions and dangerous behaviors can create conflict in relationships with loved ones, and yet emotional support from loved ones and mental health professionals can be crucial for managing the condition. Family therapy can be a helpful way to offer support and reconciliation between a family member with borderline personality disorder and others they may have hurt through risky behavior like drug misuse.
Borderline personality disorder often occurs with other mental illnesses, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), major depression, and anxiety disorders. Co-occurring disorders can make diagnosis and treatment more challenging, as they can also include extreme emotions and suicidal behavior.
People with borderline personality disorder may also experience symptoms of substance abuse, eating disorders, and bipolar disorder.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) supports a wide range of research, including clinical trials. Clinical trials can provide new treatment options and improve understanding of the borderline personality disorder. If you or a loved one experiences borderline personality disorder, talk to a healthcare provider about clinical trials and their benefits and risks.
Borderline personality disorder is a serious mental health condition that requires professional treatment and support. With the right treatment and management, individuals with borderline personality disorder can reduce self-destructive behaviors and improve their quality of life. It is essential to seek—and stick with—treatment to achieve optimal results. Educate yourself about the disorder and its treatment options to provide emotional support to loved ones with borderline personality disorder.
At Williamsburg Therapy Group, our team of doctoral-level Chicago psychotherapists allows you to work with a trained professional that can create a treatment plan and offer a variety of practical strategies, healthy coping skills to improve mental health, and techniques that will help manage the symptoms of borderline personality disorder.
If you suspect that you or a family member is experiencing borderline personality disorder, reach out to our customer service coordinator to get matched with a professional who can treat this disorder and any comorbid disorders, as well as offer tools and strategies to manage symptoms, boost self-esteem, and improve quality of life.