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Borderline Personality Disorder

Norman
In Borderline Personality Disorder

The Importance of Self-care in BPD Recovery

BPD Recovery

Self-care encompasses activities, practices, and habits intended to reduce mental and physical stress and strain while simultaneously fostering feelings of inner peace and happiness. Self-care plays a crucial role in the recovery process for individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD). The National Institute of Mental Health (NIH) defines borderline personality disorder as an “illness marked by an ongoing pattern of varying moods, self-image, and behavior.” Engaging in regular and intentional self-care practices can contribute to overall well-being and support individuals on their journey to recovery. Here is why self-care is particularly important in BPD recovery:

  • Emotional Regulation:
    • Self-care activities, such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies, can help regulate intense emotions commonly experienced by individuals with BPD. Regular self-care practices provide tools for managing emotional ups and downs more effectively.
  • Building a Stable Routine:
    • Establishing and maintaining a routine is an essential aspect of self-care. Predictability and structure in daily life can provide a sense of stability, which is beneficial for individuals with BPD who may struggle with impulsivity and mood swings.
  • Enhancing Self-Esteem:
    • Engaging in self-care activities that promote personal well-being contributes to an increased sense of self-worth and self-esteem. This is particularly important for individuals with BPD, who may struggle with a fluctuating sense of identity.
  • Boundary Setting:
    • Practicing self-care involves setting healthy boundaries, both with oneself and others. Learning to prioritize one’s own needs and communicate boundaries can improve relationships and reduce interpersonal conflicts.
  • Stress Reduction:
    • Chronic stress can exacerbate symptoms of BPD. Self-care practices, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, or spending time in nature, can help reduce stress levels and contribute to better overall mental health.
  • Improved Physical Health:
    • Taking care of one’s physical health is an integral part of self-care. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep contribute not only to physical well-being but also to mental health and mood stabilization.
  • Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques:
    • Self-care often involves mindfulness and grounding techniques, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with BPD. These practices help individuals stay present in the moment and manage overwhelming emotions effectively.
  • Developing Coping Strategies:
    • Engaging in self-care provides an opportunity to develop and practice coping strategies for managing distressing situations. This can include learning new skills, such as problem-solving or communication techniques, to navigate challenges more effectively.
  • Preventing Burnout:
    • Individuals with BPD may be prone to burnout due to the emotional intensity they experience. Regular self-care helps prevent burnout by allowing individuals to recharge and take breaks when needed.
  • Encouraging Self-Reflection:
    • Self-care practices often involve self-reflection, which is valuable for individuals with BPD in gaining insight into their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Journaling or therapy can be effective tools for this purpose.
  • Connecting with Support Systems:
    • Self-care includes reaching out to and maintaining connections with supportive friends, family, or mental health professionals. Building a strong support system is crucial for BPD recovery.

It is essential for individuals with BPD to work closely with mental health professionals to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that includes both therapeutic interventions and personalized self-care strategies tailored to their unique needs and challenges.

Treatment In Calabasas

Calabasas is a city in California. It is a well-known suburb of Los Angeles, located west of the San Fernando Valley and north of the Santa Monica Mountains. Over the past decade, the city of Calabasas has grown in its reputation for luxury as well as for privacy which makes it a hidden gem for residential living for society’s elite, and one of the most desirable destinations in Los Angeles County. It is also home to a plethora of highly qualified mental health clinicians providing an array of therapeutic services and treatment options.

The information above is provided for the use of informational purposes only. The above content is not to be substituted for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as in no way is it intended as an attempt to practice medicine, give specific medical advice, including, without limitation, advice concerning the topic of mental health. As such, please do not use any material provided above to disregard professional advice or delay seeking treatment.

 

 

Norman
In Borderline Personality Disorder

The Role of Trauma-Focused Therapy in BPD Recovery

Trauma-focused therapy, or trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), plays a significant role in the recovery process for individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD). BPD often coexists with a history of trauma, such as childhood abuse, neglect, or other adverse experiences. Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, developed by Drs. Judith Cohen, Esther Deblinger, and Anthony Mannarino, is an evidence-based treatment approach intended to reduce emotional and behavioral symptoms resulting from trauma exposure. There are a variety of ways in which trauma-focused therapy contributes to BPD recovery, including:

  • Identification and processing of trauma: TF-CBT assists individuals in recognizing and processing traumatic experiences. Through exploring the impact of past traumas, individuals can gain insight into the origins of their BPD symptoms and work towards resolving lingering emotional distress.
  • Coping strategies for emotional regulation: Individuals with BPD often struggle with emotional dysregulation, which is a term used within the mental health field to denote irrational, poorly modulated emotional responses. Trauma-focused therapy equips them with adaptive coping mechanisms to manage intense emotions, reducing the reliance on maladaptive coping strategies that may contribute to impulsive behaviors.
  • Building a sense of safety and trust: Creating a safe and supportive therapeutic environment is fundamental in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy. For individuals with BPD who may have trust issues due to past trauma, the therapist’s role is pivotal in fostering a sense of safety and trust, establishing a healthy therapeutic alliance, and laying the foundation for effective therapy.
  • Enhancing interpersonal skills: BPD often involves challenges in forming and maintaining stable relationships. TF-CBT explores how past traumas may influence current interpersonal dynamics and works towards improving communication, boundaries, and relationship skills.
  • Preventing self-harm and suicidal behaviors: Individuals with BPD are at an increased risk of self-harm and suicidal behaviors. Trauma-focused therapy addresses the underlying emotional pain and distress, reducing the likelihood of engaging in self-destructive behaviors as a means of coping with unresolved trauma.
  • Relapse prevention: TF-CBT contributes to long-term stability by addressing the root causes of BPD symptoms. It focuses on building resilience and providing individuals with skills to prevent relapse, empowering them to navigate challenges more effectively.

Trauma-focused therapy employs specific strategies to help individuals navigate and heal from their traumatic past. It serves as an integral component of BPD recovery, addressing the complex interplay between trauma and the manifestation of BPD symptoms. By providing a structured and supportive framework for processing trauma, this therapeutic approach facilitates healing, emotional regulation, and the development of adaptive coping mechanisms, ultimately contributing to a more stable and fulfilling life for individuals with BPD.

Treatment In Calabasas

Calabasas is a city in California. It is a well-known suburb of Los Angeles, located west of the San Fernando Valley and north of the Santa Monica Mountains. Over the past decade, the city of Calabasas has grown in its reputation for luxury as well as for privacy which makes it a hidden gem for residential living for society’s elite, and one of the most desirable destinations in Los Angeles County. It is also home to a plethora of highly qualified mental health clinicians providing an array of therapeutic services and treatment options.

The information above is provided for the use of informational purposes only. The above content is not to be substituted for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as in no way is it intended as an attempt to practice medicine, give specific medical advice, including, without limitation, advice concerning the topic of mental health. As such, please do not use any material provided above to disregard professional advice or delay seeking treatment.

Norman
In Borderline Personality Disorder

The Benefits of Mindfulness Meditation for BPD

Mindfulness Meditation

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a chronic, mental health disorder. It is a complex psychological condition that is characterized by “a pervasive pattern of instability and hypersensitivity in interpersonal relationships, instability in self-image, extreme mood fluctuations, and impulsivity. Individuals with borderline personality disorder often struggle with relationship issues, lack self-esteem, have a poor self-image, and have an inability to appropriately self-regulate.” The symptoms associated with borderline personality disorder can hinder one’s ability to function optimally in daily life. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIH) estimates that 1.4% of the adult population in America experience BPD. The treatment for BPD often includes long-term participation in one or more psychodynamic models of psychotherapy.

Mindfulness Meditation

Mindfulness meditation is a explained as a type of “meditation which involves paying attention to the present moment, deliberately and nonjudgmentally.” The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) further describes mindfulness mediation as “welcoming each moment and experience with curiosity and openness, without automatic attachment to what is pleasant, aversion to what is unpleasant or indifference to what is neutral.” Mindfulness meditation can offer several benefits for individuals with BPD, such as:

  • Increased emotional awareness: Mindfulness meditation facilitates recognizing emotions as they arise, which can promote emotional regulation and reduce impulsive reactions.
  • Improved distress tolerance: Mindfulness meditation bolsters an individual’s ability to tolerate distressing emotions and sensations without judgment. This acceptance can reduce the urge to engage in self-destructive behaviors during moments of distress.
  • Enriched interpersonal relationships: Mindfulness meditation fosters empathy and compassion, allowing individuals with BPD to better understand others’ perspectives and respond to them with kindness, enhancing the quality of their relationships.
  • Reduced physical symptoms: Mindfulness meditation has been associated with reduced physical symptoms related to stress, such as muscle tension and headaches, improving overall well-being.
  • Reduced identity disturbance: BPD often involves identity disturbance. Mindfulness meditation can help individuals clarify their self-identity by fostering a sense of continuity and stability in self-perception.
  • Enhanced decision-making: Mindfulness meditation can increase mental clarity and focus, which can help individuals with BPD become more aware of their thoughts and feelings, allowing them to recognize impulsive urges and choose healthier responses.

It is important to note that although mindfulness meditation is not a cure for BPD, it can be a helpful component of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Treatment In Calabasas

Calabasas is a city in California. It is a well-known suburb of Los Angeles, located west of the San Fernando Valley and north of the Santa Monica Mountains. Over the past decade, the city of Calabasas has grown in its reputation for luxury as well as for privacy which makes it a hidden gem for residential living for society’s elite, and one of the most desirable destinations in Los Angeles County. It is also home to a plethora of highly qualified mental health clinicians providing an array of therapeutic services and treatment options.

The information above is provided for the use of informational purposes only. The above content is not to be substituted for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as in no way is it intended as an attempt to practice medicine, give specific medical advice, including, without limitation, advice concerning the topic of mental health. As such, please do not use any material provided above to disregard professional advice or delay seeking treatment.

Norman
In Borderline Personality Disorder

The Importance of Setting Boundaries in BPD Recovery

BPD Recovery

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a chronic mental health disorder that is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). BPD is explained as a mental health condition “in which a person has long-term patterns of unstable or turbulent emotions… [and] these inner experiences often result in impulsive actions and chaotic relationships with other people.” Setting boundaries is crucial in the recovery process for individuals with BPD. While boundaries are vital, they are not always easy to establish, and respecting boundaries can be particularly challenging for people BPD and those close to them. Personal boundaries are physical, mental, and emotional limits and rules that people set for themselves to safeguard their overall well-being. The Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation explains:

  • Healthy boundaries: help people define who they are to ensure relationships are mutually safe, supportive, and respectful.
  • Unhealthy boundaries: are thoughts or behaviors used to manipulate or control relationships.

Boundaries create a standard by which one’s self-worth and integrity is communicated and are, therefore, based on one’s personal values and needs. There are a variety of reasons why setting boundaries in borderline personality disorder recovery is important. Setting boundaries is a form of self-care that involves prioritizing one’s own needs and well-being, which is essential for anyone but particularly important for individuals recovering from BPD.

Individuals with BPD often struggle with intense and rapidly changing emotions. Boundaries provide predictability and stability that can help regulate these emotions and prevent emotional dysregulation. BPD often involves tumultuous relationships due to fear of abandonment and difficulty trusting others. Setting boundaries can foster healthier, more stable connections with others, reducing the chaos and volatility in relationships. Boundaries help create a sense of expectedness and structure, which can mitigate the instability often associated with BPD, reducing stress and anxiety. Establishing boundaries can help individuals with BPD develop a clearer sense of self. By defining their limits, values, and priorities, individuals with BPD can build a stronger and more stable self-identity and develop improved self-esteem. Further, learning to set and enforce boundaries can inspire personal growth and enhance self-confidence.

Treatment In Calabasas

Calabasas is a city in California. It is a well-known suburb of Los Angeles, located west of the San Fernando Valley and north of the Santa Monica Mountains. Over the past decade, the city of Calabasas has grown in its reputation for luxury as well as for privacy which makes it a hidden gem for residential living for society’s elite, and one of the most desirable destinations in Los Angeles County. It is also home to a plethora of highly qualified mental health clinicians providing an array of therapeutic services and treatment options.

The information above is provided for the use of informational purposes only. The above content is not to be substituted for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as in no way is it intended as an attempt to practice medicine, give specific medical advice, including, without limitation, advice concerning the topic of mental health. As such, please do not use any material provided above to disregard professional advice or delay seeking treatment.

Norman
In Borderline Personality Disorder

DBT Skills for Distress Tolerance in BPD

Distress Tolerance

Distress tolerance is one of the four key areas, also known as modules, that make up the psychotherapeutic intervention known as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Psychologist Marsha M. Linehan developed DBT in the late 1980s as a means to help better treat chronically suicidal individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Distress tolerance is often conceptualized as “one’s ability to tolerate and withstand negative or uncomfortable emotional states.” DBT skills for distress tolerance, also known as crisis survival skills, aim to help individuals learn how to cope with feelings that do not have an immediately known resolution. There are many different distress tolerance skills taught in DBT, some of which include the following:

  • Radical acceptance: This skill entails making a conscious choice to accept the state of things as they are, without working to change them. 
  • TIPP skills: TIPP is an acronym for Temperature, Intense exercise, Paced breathing, and Paired muscle relaxation. TIPP skills quickly calm the limbic system and lower the state of emotional arousal.
  • Weigh the pros and cons: Noting the pros and cons can help an individual pause and take a moment to think logically about a situation and the subsequent steps.
  • Failing forward: Failing forward eliminates the fear of failure by recognizing and celebrating it as an opportunity for growth. It allows an individual to see that failure does not imply that they have failed as a person, and simultaneously reinforces the notion that growth is always possible.
  • STOP skill: STOP is an acronym for Stop, Take a step back, Observe, and Proceed mindfully, which can help an individual avoid engaging in impulsive behavior.
  • Self-soothing techniques: There are a variety of self-soothing techniques that can be used to ground oneself mentally and emotionally.
  • Square breathing: This is a guided breathing exercise that can be used by anyone to manage stress and anxiety, as it has been shown to relax the nervous system. Try it out by following these simple directions:
    • Inhale to a count of 4.
    • Hold your breath to a count of 4.
    • Exhale to a count of 4.
    • Hold it for a count of 4.
  • IMPROVE skills: IMPROVE is an acronym for Imagery, Meaning, Prayer, Relaxation, One thing in the moment, Vacation, and Encouragement, all of which can help with improving the moment.
  • Distraction: During moments of intense overwhelm, temporary distractions (e.g., calling a friend, reading a book, watching TV, etc.) can provide brief relief from the distressing situation.

The skills focused on during the distress tolerance module of DBT include various short-term coping strategies intended to help an individual with BPD manage emotional pain to avoid destructive behavior.

Treatment In Calabasas

Calabasas is a city in California. It is a well-known suburb of Los Angeles, located west of the San Fernando Valley and north of the Santa Monica Mountains. Over the past decade, the city of Calabasas has grown in its reputation for luxury as well as for privacy which makes it a hidden gem for residential living for society’s elite, and one of the most desirable destinations in Los Angeles County. It is also home to a plethora of highly qualified mental health clinicians providing an array of therapeutic services and treatment options.

The information above is provided for the use of informational purposes only. The above content is not to be substituted for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as in no way is it intended as an attempt to practice medicine, give specific medical advice, including, without limitation, advice concerning the topic of mental health. As such, please do not use any material provided above to disregard professional advice or delay seeking treatment.

Norman
In Borderline Personality Disorder

How To Cope With The Fear Of Abandonment In BPD

BPD

Psychology Today characterizes fear of abandonment as “a lingering feeling of insecurity, contributing to intrusive thoughts, emptiness, unstable sense of self, clinginess, neediness, extreme mood fluctuations, and frequent relationship conflicts.” Although, fear of abandonment itself is not a pathology, it is a core feature of certain mental health disorders, such as borderline personality disorder (BPD). Borderline personality disorder is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a chronic, mental health disorder. It is a serious psychological condition that is characterized by pervasive instability in moods, emotions, behaviors, and interpersonal relationships which interfere with one’s ability to function in everyday life. As is explained by Harvard Medical School, “People with borderline personality disorder have a deep fear of abandonment… they compete for social acceptance, are terrified of rejection and often feel lonely even in the context of an intimate relationship.” Even with the strong desire to have loving, and lasting relationships, the symptoms of BPD such as inappropriate anger, impulsiveness, and frequent mood swings often push others away, which reinforces the fear of abandonment. Verywell Mind offers several strategies that can help individuals with BPD cope with the fear of abandonment, some of which include:

  • Challenge your negative, unwanted thoughts: Identify the anxious thoughts that surface when you think of being alone, analyze them, and challenge them to discern if your initial reaction is truly how you feel or if you are just assuming the worst.
  • Prioritize your health: Taking care of your body can improve your mental and physical health. Be sure to exercise regularly, obtain ample nightly sleep, eat nutritiously, stay hydrated, etc.
  • Explore different relaxation tactics: Try different mindfulness exercises like yoga or meditation. Research has found that meditation can help lower blood pressure, reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, improve insomnia, etc.
  • Acknowledge that you are experiencing heavy emotions: By recognizing, acknowledging, and naming your negative emotions you can begin to face them, feel them, and let them go.
  • Have a plan to deescalate and ground yourself: Identifying ways that make you feel safe, secure, and calm, and implementing them in times of need, can help increase your resilience.
  • Do not be afraid to ask for help: Recognize when you need additional support and do not hesitate to pursue professional guidance. There is a vast network of highly qualified mental health providers that have expert knowledge and extensive experience in working with individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder.

Treatment In Calabasas

Calabasas is a city in California. It is a well-known suburb of Los Angeles, located west of the San Fernando Valley and north of the Santa Monica Mountains. Over the past decade, the city of Calabasas has grown in its reputation for luxury as well as for privacy which makes it a hidden gem for residential living for society’s elite, and one of the most desirable destinations in Los Angeles County. It is also home to a plethora of highly qualified mental health clinicians providing an array of therapeutic services and treatment options.

The information above is provided for the use of informational purposes only. The above content is not to be substituted for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as in no way is it intended as an attempt to practice medicine, give specific medical advice, including, without limitation, advice concerning the topic of mental health. As such, please do not use any material provided above to disregard professional advice or delay seeking treatment.

Norman
In Borderline Personality Disorder

DBT: A Powerful Therapy For Borderline Personality Disorder

Borderline Personality Disorder

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a chronic, mental health disorder. It is a complex psychological condition that is characterized by pervasive instability in moods, emotions, behaviors, and interpersonal relationships. This instability interferes with one’s ability to function in his or her daily life, long-term planning, as well as an individual’s sense of identity. Individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder often experience swift mood swings, including intense episodes of depression, anger, and/ or anxiety that may range in duration, lasting as short as a couple of hours to several days. The symptoms associated with BPD frequently result in highly unstable patterns of social relationships. This chronic condition is also associated with high rates of self-injury and suicidal behavior. The treatment for BPD often includes long-term participation in psychodynamic models of psychotherapy.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based psychotherapy that emphasizes the psychosocial aspects of treatment. It is founded on the principals of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and blends Eastern mindfulness techniques (e.g., awareness, mindfulness, and attentiveness to current situations and emotional experiences) to encourage acceptance and change. Psychologist Marsha M. Linehan developed DBT in the late 1980s as a treatment method specifically designed for chronically suicidal individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. Since its inception, dialectical behavior therapy has been and remains the gold standard method of treatment for individuals diagnosed with BPD and has also proven effective in treating individuals with other mental health conditions. DBT is a rigidly structured therapeutic approach that is carried out in three therapeutic settings: weekly individual therapy sessions, weekly DBT skills training group therapy sessions, and as-needed phone coaching. This allows participants to engage in individualized and collective treatment while focusing on the four modules of DBT, which are:

  1. Core mindfulness: the practice of being completely present and aware in the moment.
  2. Distress tolerance: becoming tolerant of pain in difficult situations instead of attempting to change it.
  3. Emotion regulation: decreasing emotional impulsivity, learning to manage and shift intense, problematic emotions.
  4. Interpersonal effectiveness: authentically advocating for one’s own wants and needs in a relationship in a way that is both self-respecting and non-damaging.

The entire DBT program (provided skills modules are not repeated) usually lasts about six months long, as approximately six weeks are allocated to each of the four skills modules. DBT is based on the notion that change can be balanced with self-acceptance. This gives individuals struggling with BPD the opportunity to build meaningful and stable lives. Dialectical behavior therapy aims to help an individual learn strategies, techniques, and tools to effectively manage the symptoms associated with borderline personality disorder, reduce the severity of symptoms experienced, and enhance one’s quality of life.

Treatment In Calabasas

Calabasas is a city in California. It is a well-known suburb of Los Angeles, located west of the San Fernando Valley and north of the Santa Monica Mountains. Over the past decade, the city of Calabasas has grown in its reputation for luxury as well as for privacy which makes it a hidden gem for residential living for society’s elite, and one of the most desirable destinations in Los Angeles County. It is also home to a plethora of highly qualified mental health clinicians providing an array of therapeutic services and treatment options.

The information above is provided for the use of informational purposes only. The above content is not to be substituted for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as in no way is it intended as an attempt to practice medicine, give specific medical advice, including, without limitation, advice concerning the topic of mental health. As such, please do not use any material provided above to disregard professional advice or delay seeking treatment.

Norman
In Borderline Personality Disorder

How Can You Tell If Someone Has Borderline Personality Disorder?

Borderline Personality Disorder

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is one of ten personality disorders listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). Each of the ten personality disorders is categorized into one of three clusters (cluster A, cluster B, and cluster C). The personality disorders that make up each cluster share similar symptoms and have overlapping characteristics. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) cluster A is characterized as odd or eccentric personalities; cluster B is characterized as dramatic, emotional, or erratic personalities; and cluster C is characterized as anxious or fearful personalities. Borderline personality disorder belongs to cluster B and is specifically characterized by “hypersensitivity to rejection and resulting instability of interpersonal relationships, self-image, affect, and behavior.” Borderline personality disorder is associated with a diverse range of signs and symptoms. There is no way to definitively tell if someone has BPD without a proper diagnosis.

Differential Diagnosis

Borderline personality disorder is known as a differential diagnosis. A differential diagnosis implies that there are other possible diagnoses, and requires the diagnostician to differentiate between these possibilities to determine the actual diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. To begin the diagnosis process, an individual must undergo a physical exam, including a complete medical history. Although there are currently no laboratory tests or scans used to detect or diagnose BPD, some tests (e.g., blood tests) may be used in the diagnosis process to check for any underlying health conditions that may be causing symptoms. If no signs of physical illness are determined, the process continues with an assessment conducted by a mental health professional that specializes in diagnosing and treating mental illnesses (e.g., psychiatrist, psychologist, etc.). Mental health experts rely on the diagnostic criteria provided in the DSM-5.

DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria 

According to the DSM-5, borderline personality disorder is diagnosed when an individual experiences “a pervasive pattern of instability of interpersonal relationships, self-image and affects, and marked impulsivity beginning by early adulthood” and must experience five or more of the following symptoms in a variety of contexts:

  • Emotional instability.
  • Feelings of emptiness.
  • Efforts to avoid abandonment.
  • Impulsive behaviors.
  • Identity disturbances.
  • Inappropriate, irrational and/ or intense bouts of anger.
  • Transient paranoid and/ or dissociative symptoms.
  • Unstable interpersonal relationships.
  • Suicidal and/ or self-harming behaviors.

BPD is notorious for being an incredibly challenging mental health disorder to both diagnose and treat. The cause of borderline personality disorder remains unknown. However, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIH) alludes to research that “suggests that genetics, brain structure and function, and environmental, cultural, and social factors play a role, or may increase the risk for developing borderline personality disorder.” Recent research suggests that 1.6% of the population in the United States has BPD, which is equal to over four million Americans.

Treatment In Calabasas

Calabasas is a city in California. It is a well-known suburb of Los Angeles, located west of the San Fernando Valley and north of the Santa Monica Mountains. Over the past decade, the city of Calabasas has grown in its reputation for luxury as well as for privacy which makes it a hidden gem for residential living for society’s elite, and one of the most desirable destinations in Los Angeles County. It is also home to a plethora of highly qualified mental health clinicians providing an array of therapeutic services and treatment options.

The information above is provided for the use of informational purposes only. The above content is not to be substituted for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as in no way is it intended as an attempt to practice medicine, give specific medical advice, including, without limitation, advice concerning the topic of mental health. As such, please do not use any material provided above to disregard professional advice or delay seeking treatment.

Norman
In Borderline Personality Disorder

Does My Husband Have Borderline Personality Disorder Test?

Borderline Personality Disorder Test

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a chronic mental health condition that is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). BPD is characterized by “a pervasive pattern of instability and hypersensitivity in interpersonal relationships, instability in self-image, extreme mood fluctuations, and impulsivity…often [causing one to] struggle with relationship issues, lack self-esteem, have a poor self-image, and have an inability to appropriately self-regulate.” A hallmark of BPD is a pattern of instability in personal relationships. As is explained by Harvard Medical School, “People with borderline personality disorder have a deep fear of abandonment… they compete for social acceptance, are terrified of rejection and often feel lonely even in the context of an intimate relationship.” If you are concerned that your husband may be struggling with borderline personality disorder it is helpful to learn about the common signs and symptoms, as there is no specific test for BPD.

Signs and Symptoms

For diagnostic purposes, the DSM-5 list nine primary symptoms for borderline personality disorder. Five of the nine must be detected before a mental health professional can make a diagnosis of BPD, although it is common for sufferers to demonstrate more than five. The nine symptoms are:

  1. Strong, largely irrational fears of abandonment accompanied by frantic, desperate efforts to avoid it.
  2. In the context of relationships, alternating periods of idealization (intense love and admiration) and devaluation (feelings of revulsion and disillusionment).
  3. Persistently unstable self-image and sense of identity.
  4. Impulsivity in at least two areas that can cause damage to self or others (e.g., reckless spending, substance abuse, binge eating, compulsive gambling, unsafe driving, etc.).
  5. Episodes of acute emotional disquiet (irritability, anxiety, or anguish) that last for hours or days.
  6. Chronic feelings of emptiness, meaninglessness, and low motivation.
  7. Explosive, intense bursts of uncontrollable anger.
  8. Outbreaks of dissociative symptoms marked by extreme paranoia, suspicion, and a disconnection from reality.
  9. Suicidal threats and actions and self-harming behavior (e.g., cutting, burning, pulling out hair, scratching the skin until it bleeds, etc.).

The overall symptomatic profile for borderline personality disorder is largely the same for men and women. Nevertheless, there are some differences in the way the symptoms of BPD manifest in the two genders. In general, men with BPD are:

  • Highly sensitive to criticism, and aggressive in response to perceived insults.
  • Overly controlling in relationships.
  • Intensely jealous and possessive.
  • Quick to become disillusioned with others, and openly expressive of their contempt.
  • Subject to instantaneous mood changes.
  • Excessively irritable and prone to episodes of explosive anger.
  • Likely to compensate for feelings of inadequacy through risky, dangerous behavior.

BPD is notorious for being an incredibly challenging mental health disorder to both diagnose and treat. This is partly because BPD symptoms often mimic those of other mental health disorders (e.g., histrionic personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, bipolar disorder, etc.). Therefore, the only way to truly know whether someone has borderline personality disorder is to undergo a comprehensive evaluation that is conducted by one or more qualified mental health professionals.

Treatment In Calabasas

Calabasas is a city in California. It is a well-known suburb of Los Angeles, located west of the San Fernando Valley and north of the Santa Monica Mountains. Over the past decade, the city of Calabasas has grown in its reputation for luxury as well as for privacy which makes it a hidden gem for residential living for society’s elite, and one of the most desirable destinations in Los Angeles County. It is also home to a plethora of highly qualified mental health clinicians providing an array of therapeutic services and treatment options.

The information above is provided for the use of informational purposes only. The above content is not to be substituted for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as in no way is it intended as an attempt to practice medicine, give specific medical advice, including, without limitation, advice concerning the topic of mental health. As such, please do not use any material provided above to disregard professional advice or delay seeking treatment.

Norman
In Borderline Personality Disorder

How Do I Leave BPD?

Borderline personality disorder

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as a chronic mental health disorder. It is a serious psychological condition that is characterized by pervasive instability in moods, emotions, behaviors, and interpersonal relationships which interfere with one’s ability to function in everyday life. BPD directly affects how one feels about him or herself, one’s behaviors as well as how an individual can relate to others. As is explained by the Mayo Clinic individuals with borderline personality disorder have an intense fear of abandonment or instability, and are often unable to tolerate being alone. Even with the strong desire to have loving, and lasting relationships, the symptoms of BPD (e.g., inappropriate anger, impulsiveness, frequent mood swings, etc.) often push others away. Making the decision to end a relationship with a partner diagnosed with borderline personality disorder can be difficult. To help you end your relationship amicably and leave with integrity consider the following suggestions, provided by Psychology Today:

  • Speak clearly, gently, and with compassion: When communicating it is important to be direct and use short sentences, in a calm and non-threatening voice.
    • Remain calm and respectful: It is common for individuals with BPD to lash out when feeling attacked, frustrated, or rejected. Avoid reacting impulsively and do not be sarcastic, snarky, or demeaning.
  • Avoid blame: The constructive conversations that often occur between two healthy people exploring why their relationship did not work, is unlikely to happen when one of the partners has borderline personality disorder. In attempt to understand why the relationship failed, an individual with BPD is likely to ask what they did wrong. However, rather than accepting their partner’s feedback at face value, they instead hear these explanations as attacks on their character and become defensive or even hostile.
  • Be a source of validation: Whenever possible, acknowledge and validate their feelings, even if you do not fully agree with their beliefs.
  • Set and enforce boundaries as necessary: When you break up with someone diagnosed with BPD, they are likely to lash out at you. You have made the choice to end the relationship and to uphold this decision you must set and maintain clear boundaries by stating what you will and will not accept.

The end of any relationship can trigger a range of emotions and in partners with BPD terminating a relationship can cause particularly charged and heightened emotional reactions. Nevertheless, if there comes a point where you feel it best to end a relationship, although their BPD may be helpful in considering the most effective way to deliver this message to your partner, it is generally best to avoid delay.

Treatment In Calabasas

Calabasas is a city in California. It is a well-known suburb of Los Angeles, located west of the San Fernando Valley and north of the Santa Monica Mountains. Over the past decade, the city of Calabasas has grown in its reputation for luxury as well as for privacy which makes it a hidden gem for residential living for society’s elite, and one of the most desirable destinations in Los Angeles County. It is also home to a plethora of highly qualified mental health clinicians providing an array of therapeutic services and treatment options.

The information above is provided for the use of informational purposes only. The above content is not to be substituted for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as in no way is it intended as an attempt to practice medicine, give specific medical advice, including, without limitation, advice concerning the topic of mental health. As such, please do not use any material provided above to disregard professional advice or delay seeking treatment.

contact us

Please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Wallach with any questions you may have.

Offices:
450 N Bedford Dr, Suites 304 & 211, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
9615 Brighton Way, Suites 410 & 412, Beverly Hills CA 90210
23564 Calabasas Road, Suite 207, Calabasas CA 91302

Phone: 310.927.4307
Email: suzannewallachmft@gmail.com


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