Borderline personality (BPD) - characteristics, symptoms and treatment methods

Borderline personality disorder (BPD), also known as emotionally unstable or borderline personality, is one of the most complex personality disorders. It is characterized by severe emotional instability, impulsivity and difficulties in interpersonal relationships. BPD ranks between neurotic and psychotic disorders, causing people with the disorder to experience extreme mood swings and difficulty regulating their emotions..

Borderline personality traits

People with BPD often experience intense emotions that can change very quickly. Characteristic of this disorder are:

• Extreme mood swings,

• Impulsive emotional reactions,

• Chronic feelings of emptiness,

• Unstable self-esteem,

• Difficulties in building lasting relationships,

• A strong fear of rejection and loneliness,

• Extreme perception of reality (black and white thinking),

• Risky and self-destructive behaviors,

• Paranoid episodes and psychotic symptoms.

People with borderline often make rash decisions that can negatively affect their professional and personal lives. Identity problems and emotional instability can lead to interpersonal conflicts and feelings of loneliness.

How is BPD diagnosed?

Diagnosis of borderline personality disorder is based on observation of symptoms and meeting the diagnostic criteria of the ICD-10 or DSM-5 classifications. Specialists conduct a detailed interview and use psychological tests to determine the extent of the disorder and adjust appropriate treatment methods.

Therapeutic methods in borderline

BPD treatment focuses primarily on psychotherapy, which helps the patient understand his emotions, learn to regulate them, and develop healthy coping strategies to deal with crises. Among the most effective therapeutic methods are:

• Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) - focused on learning to regulate emotions, stress tolerance and improving interpersonal skills.

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) - helps change negative thinking and behavioral patterns.

• Psychodynamic therapy - focuses on working through difficult past experiences and building a more stable identity.

• Mentalization-based therapy (MBT) - develops the ability to understand one's own and others' emotions.

In some cases, pharmacotherapy is also used, which can help treat accompanying symptoms such as depression and anxiety.

Support for families and loved ones

Relatives of people with borderline often experience difficulties in communicating and dealing with patients' intense emotions. Education and family therapy can help build healthy relationships and effectively support a person with BPD. It is important to learn how to set boundaries and not take responsibility for the patient's unstable emotions.

Borderline - it's worth getting support

Borderline personality is a complex disorder that requires professional diagnosis and therapy. Although BPD is not fully "curable," appropriate psychotherapy allows for significant improvements in functioning, reduction of symptoms and better management of emotions. Support from loved ones and access to effective therapeutic approaches are key to improving the quality of life for people with BPD.