Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental health disorder linked to early traumatic experiences. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCIB), “surveys have estimated the prevalence of borderline personality disorder to be 1.6% in the general population and 20% of the psychiatric inpatient population.” BPD is characterized by extreme mood swings, rapid changes of interests and values, and substantial uncertainty about a person’s place in the world. Individuals with BPD often engage in risky and dangerous behavior, including drug and alcohol abuse, promiscuity, and self-injurious behaviors, like cutting and suicide attempts.
Create Recovery Center helps those who are struggling with a dual diagnosis of substance addiction or impulse control disorders and BPD. If you or a loved one needs intensive residential treatment, outpatient therapy, or partial hospitalization, we have a program that can suit your needs. Our expert clinical team is here to help those suffering from BPD learn how to manage the common symptoms of BPD, like:
Treating Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) with a co-occurring addiction can include multiple strategies to address all aspects of the disorder and addiction, such as:
At Create Recovery, our staff can help you find the best approach for your personalized treatment plan. Our comprehensive program is precipitated on the philosophy of “meeting people exactly where they are.” Our team is comprised of caring, knowledgeable, and sympathetic professionals who are passionate about helping those struggling with BPD and addiction. We offer therapy based on one of the most effective treatments for BPD: Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
If a loved one, family member, or friend has BPD, you might have difficulty maintaining the relationship. Remember that your loved one has symptoms of a disorder that can be treated. The symptoms of BPD can be taxing on interpersonal relationships, and the person with BPD might push away those trying to help them. One of the most challenging aspects of treating BPD is that the characteristics of the disorder can corrode otherwise healthy and helpful relationships.
Taking care of yourself is critical when helping a loved one with BPD. You might want to consider attending support groups and therapy to be your best self while your loved one is going through treatment. Create Recovery believes that strong support networks are critical to recovery from addiction and mental health disorders. Family therapy can be a crucial element to your loved one’s success; your involvement in treatment and aftercare can help them get their life back on track. There is hope for you and your loved one to live successful and happy lives!
Borderline Personality Disorder is a mental health condition characterized by intense emotional instability, unstable relationships, distorted self-image, and impulsive behaviors. People with BPD often experience intense fear of abandonment and have difficulty regulating their emotions.
BPD affects approximately 1.4% of adults in the United States and is more commonly diagnosed in women than men. The condition typically emerges in early adulthood and can significantly impact daily functioning and relationships.
The main symptoms of BPD include:
The exact cause of BPD is not fully understood, but research suggests it results from a combination of factors:
Genetics: Having a family history of BPD or other mental health conditions may increase risk
Brain structure and function: Differences in areas of the brain that control emotions and decision-making
Environmental factors: Childhood trauma, abuse, neglect, or separation from caregivers
Social factors: Unstable family relationships or cultural factors
It's important to note that experiencing trauma doesn't guarantee someone will develop BPD, and not everyone with BPD has a history of trauma.
BPD is diagnosed by a qualified mental health professional through a comprehensive evaluation that includes:
A diagnosis requires meeting at least 5 of the 9 criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The symptoms must be present by early adulthood and occur across various situations.
Several evidence-based treatments have shown effectiveness for BPD:
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): The gold standard treatment focusing on emotion regulation and interpersonal skills
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps identify and change negative thought patterns
Mentalization-Based Therapy (MBT): Improves ability to understand thoughts and feelings
Schema Therapy: Addresses deeply rooted patterns and beliefs
Medication: While no specific medication treats BPD, certain medications can help manage symptoms
Treatment typically involves individual therapy, group therapy, and sometimes family therapy. The most effective approach is often a combination of these methods.
Yes, recovery from BPD is absolutely possible. Research shows that with proper treatment, many people with BPD can achieve significant improvement and lead fulfilling lives. Studies indicate that about 85% of people with BPD achieve remission within 10 years of diagnosis when they receive appropriate treatment.
Recovery typically involves learning new coping skills, developing emotional regulation techniques, and building healthier relationships. While it requires commitment and time, many people with BPD go on to have successful careers, relationships, and overall life satisfaction.
The length of treatment varies significantly depending on individual circumstances, severity of symptoms, and treatment approach. However, most evidence-based treatments for BPD are designed as longer-term interventions:
While treatment is often long-term, many people begin to see improvements in their symptoms within the first few months of consistent therapy.
No, BPD and bipolar disorder are different conditions, though they can sometimes be confused due to some overlapping symptoms:
BPD: Mood changes are typically triggered by interpersonal events and last hours to days
Bipolar: Mood episodes (mania/depression) last weeks to months and may not have clear triggers
BPD: Focuses on relationship patterns and identity issues
Bipolar: Primarily a mood disorder with distinct manic and depressive episodes
It's possible to have both conditions, and accurate diagnosis by a qualified professional is essential for proper treatment.
Family support is crucial for recovery from BPD. Here are ways family members can help:
Remember that recovery is a process, and having a supportive family can significantly improve outcomes.
Most insurance plans cover mental health treatment, including BPD therapy, thanks to mental health parity laws. Coverage typically includes:
Coverage details vary by plan, so it's important to check with your insurance provider about specific benefits, copays, and any pre-authorization requirements. Many treatment centers also offer financial assistance or payment plans for those who need them.