WHAT IS BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER, OR BPD? Borderline personality disorder is a mental health disorder that impacts the way you think and feel about yourself and others, causing problems functioning in everyday life. It includes self-image issues, difficulty managing emotions and behavior, and a pattern of unstable relationships. CAUSES - Genetics: Some studies of twins and families suggest that personality disorders may be inherited or strongly associated with other mental health disorders among family members. - Brain abnormalities: Some research has shown changes in certain areas of the brain involved in emotion regulation, impulsivity and aggression. In addition, certain brain chemicals that help regulate mood, such as serotonin, may not function properly. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS - An intense fear of abandonment, even going to extreme measures to avoid real or imagined separation or rejection - A pattern of unstable intense relationships, such as idealizing someone one moment and then suddenly believing the person doesn't care enough or is cruel - Rapid changes in self-identity and self-image that include shifting goals and values, and seeing yourself as bad or as if you don't exist at all - Periods of stress-related paranoia and loss of contact with reality, lasting from a few minutes to a few hours - Impulsive and risky behavior, such as, reckless driving, spending sprees, binge eating or drug abuse, or sabotaging success by suddenly quitting a good job or ending a positive relationship (There are a few more, but they were, "Inappropriate") - Threats to end one's like or behavior or self-injury, often in response to fear of separation or rejection - Wide mood swings lasting from a few hours to a few days, which can include intense happiness, irritability, shame or anxiety - Ongoing feelings of emptiness - Inappropriate, intense anger, such as frequently losing your temper, being sarcastic or bitter, or having physical fights ONE WITH BPD MIGHT ALSO HAVE - Depression - Alcohol or other substance misuse - Anxiety disorders - Eating disorders - Bipolar disorder - Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) - Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) - Other personality disorders
If you have thoughts of wanting to end your life, please call 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) I will be making another "Get Educated" on Bipolar Disorder sometime soon. I have BPD and thought it would be nice to educated some of you guys. Song: Cry Baby by Melanie Martinez
