Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition characterized by intense emotional experiences, and a severely impacted ability to control emotions, unstable relationships, and a distorted sense of self. People with BPD often experience a fear of abandonment and have difficulty managing their emotions.  

Recent studies suggest that BPD affects approximately 1-2% of the general population, and up to 20% of those seeking mental health care (meaning it is often found alongside other mental health conditions, when people seek treatment for these). Symptoms of BPD can vary widely from person to person but commonly include extreme mood swings, feelings of emptiness, fear of abandonment, and sometimes self-harm or suicidal behaviour. Individuals may also struggle with intense, inappropriate anger, and have identity disturbances. People with BPD’s severely impacted ability to control emotions means that their relationships with others are often negatively impacted, unstable, and challenging to navigate. For example, those with BPD may alternate between intense emotional dependence on another and pushing them away – a “love-hate” relationship which can be difficult for both the people involved.

Fortunately, treatment is available and can be highly effective. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is particularly renowned for helping those with BPD, focusing on developing skills like emotional regulation, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. Other therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and medication, may also be beneficial, depending on individual symptoms and needs. It is also important for those who have loved ones with BPD to be properly informed on the condition, in order to able to be understanding and caring when it puts relationships under strain.

Further information and resources

• NHS: Borderline Personality Disorder
• Mind UK BPD Information
• Rethink Mental Illness

Recommended books

• "Sometimes I Act Crazy: Living with Borderline Personality Disorder" by Jerold J. Kreisman & Hal Straus – A guide with a positive outlook to BPD for everyone from those who suspect they might be living with BPD, to those clinically diagnosed, to people who have loved ones with the condition.
• "The Borderline Personality Disorder Survival Guide: Everything You Need to Know About Living with BPD" by Alexander L. Chapman and Kim L. Gratz – A helpful compilation of common questions and helpful answers providing a comprehensive overview of BPD, with later chapters containing information about treatment and management techniques.
• "Talking About BPD: A Stigma-Free Guide to Living a Calmer, Happier Life with Borderline Personality" by Rosie Cappucino – Written by someone with lived experience of BPD, this book aims to dispel common myths and stereotypes, whilst offering advice for approaching relationships and day-to-day life.

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