What is borderline personality disorder?
Borderline personality disorder or BPD is a mental condition that is classified under the category of personality disorders. This is a common condition that is more common in women. It can prove to be disruptive in terms of interpersonal relations and normal functioning. Mental health care is necessary for patients suffering from BPD and with proper treatment; many are able to resume living a normal life.
Symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder
Individuals suffering from BPD tend to exhibit mood instability and impulsive behaviours. The individual may experience distinct mood swings in which there are periods of extreme depression, anxiety or anger. The periods can continue from a few hours to an entire day. There may be bouts of aggression characterized by anger that is inappropriate and uncontrolled. Substance abuse such as that of alcohol or drugs could also occur. The individual may also engage in self-injury. Other impulsive behaviour such as overspending, engaging in sexual encounters, driving recklessly or indulging in food binges can also develop. The individual tends to frequently make changes in goals, career and values. They may even begin to perceive themselves as unworthy. Their sense of self becomes blurred and they may feel worthless or misunderstood. Individuals with BPD display instability in social relationships and may alternate from displaying immense love and affection to displaying anger and aversion to their family and close ones. Feelings of being neglected may also result in suicidal threats or attempts.
Borderline Personality Disorder Causes
The factors that cause BPD are unclear. Several biological and psychological factors are believed to play a role in the development of BPD. It is has been studied that individuals with BPD are more likely to have an amygdala that is overactive. This is the part of the brain that controls emotions. Attention deficit disorders could also be a trigger for BPD. Instances of childhood abandonment or neglect or abuse are also likely in individuals with BPD. Individuals with BPD are also likely to expect rejection or criticism from others, which may explain feelings of unworthiness and negative self image. Treatment for BPD involves medication as well as psychotherapy. The steps that one can take at home that help in treating the condition are to adhere to the entire course of treatment and to attend and participate in therapy sessions. One must also learn to adopt healthier ways of expressing or coping with negative emotions and not engage in self-injury. One can also keep a track of the instances or factors that tend to set off bouts of anger or impulsiveness. Reading and learning more about the condition will also help the individual to be more aware of what causes it and how it can effectively treated.
