What is Borderline Personality Disorder [Updated 2024]

In this article, I will discuss what is Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) in detail.

Introduction/ Definition

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), a borderline personality disorder is a serious mental illness characterized by pervasive instability in moods, interpersonal relationships, self-image, and behavior.

This instability often disrupts family and work life, long-term planning, and the individual's sense of self-identity.

Etiology

Borderline Personality Disorder DSM 5 - Multiple Factors may contribute to this disorder including; genetics, environmental Factors and serotonin abnormalities.

Is borderline personality disorder genetic? | Is borderline personality disorder hereditary?

Yes the borderline personality disorder is also genetic.

Borderline Personality Disorder Symptoms | Signs of Borderline Personality Disorder

How borderline personality disorder is diagnosed - Individuals with borderline personality disorder experience a pervasive pattern of unstable interpersonal relationships and have difficulties with moods and self-image.

Impulsivity is also extremely common in BPD. Often have intense episodes of anxiety, depression, and irritability lasting from a few hours to several days.

May direct anger outward in the form of physical aggression, but may also engage in self-destructive behaviors such as drug abuse, eating disorders, or suicidal gestures. These behaviors are often intended to manipulate others.

Usually have poor self-identity that leads to overly intense relationships with others. These interactions are generally filled with conflict and the individual with borderline personality disorder will vacillate between idealizing other people and undervaluing them.

Tend to become angry and frustrated when other people fail to meet unrealistic expectations.

(BPD) Borderline Personalty Disorder Causes

Brain Structure and Function Problem
Family History of BPD
Negative Experiences in Childhood or in Early Ages

Borderline Personality Disorder Relationship

Borderline Personality Disorder has direct relationship to increase the risk of:

Relationship Problems
Work Problems
Abusive Behavior Patterns
Injured him/herself
Attempt Suicide
Fighting
Accident
Victim of Violent Crime
Depression
Anxiety Disorder
Eating Disorder
Bipolar Disorder etc.

Treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder

First question is there that; is borderline personality disorder curable? The answer of this question is; yes the borderline personalty disorder is curable.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is the main treatment of borderline personality disorder. Psychiatric drugs such as antidepressants are often effective, both alone and in combination with psychotherapy. Anti-psychotic medications are sometimes used in cases involving distorted thinking patterns.

The mental health professional may recommend one of the following therapy treatment:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Therapy is often effective in many patients, especially treatment that utilizes cognitive-behavioral approaches. The goal of the therapist is to help the client learn to be more aware of other people’s perspectives.

CBT helps to identify and change unhealthy beliefs, behaviors and inaccurate perceptions. It teaches healthy ways to react when feeling angry, insecure, anxious and suicidal.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT teaches how to recognize, be aware of, and accept beliefs and behaviors. With the help of DBT you may learn healthy responses to these behaviors.

Schema Focused Therapy (SFT)

SFT helps to view yourself and the world in a more positive sense.

Medication for Borderline Personality Disorder

Medicine for borderline personality disorder - Medication does not cure borderline personality disorder, but it can relieve symptoms as:

Antidepressant to treat depression.

Anti-psychotics to treat aggressive behavior.

Anti-anxiety to treat anxiety.

Other Omega-3 Fatty Acids also relieve the symptoms.

Hospitalization.