
A path of recovery from the grips of borderline personality disorder’s misery
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the estimated prevalence of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) in American adults is approximately 1.4% of the population. This shows that about 4 million adults in the US live with BPD.
About borderline personality disorder
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition that has an impact on a person’s way of thinking, feelings, and behavior. It is described as having intense and unstable emotions, impulsive behavior, unstable self-image, and unstable relationships. People with BPD may experience feelings of emptiness, fear of abandonment, and mood swings that can last for hours or even days.
BPD is often diagnosed in early adulthood and affects both men and women equally.
Symptoms of borderline personality disorder
The symptoms of Borderline personality disorder vary from person to person, but some common signs and symptoms include:
- Intense and unstable emotions: People with BPD have strong feelings of anger, sadness, anxiety, or irritability that can shift quickly and unpredictably.
- Impulsive behavior: People are also more prone to taking impulsive and risky actions, such as substance abuse, binge eating, reckless driving, or unsafe sex.
- Distorted self-image: There’s an unstable sense of self and struggle with feelings of emptiness, worthlessness, and identity confusion.
- Difficulty with relationships: People also struggle to form and maintain stable relationships, often experiencing intense and stormy interpersonal conflicts.
- Fear of abandonment: They can have a constant fear of abandonment, which can lead to desperate efforts to avoid real or perceived rejection.
- Suicidal behavior: People with BPD may consider taking their own lives or engage in self-harm behaviors, such as cutting or burning.
Causes of borderline personality disorder
One of the possible causes of borderline personality disorder is genes. Studies have shown that BPD has a heritable component, meaning that genetics may play a role in its development. People with a family history of BPD or other mood disorders may be more likely to develop the condition themselves. Even the traumatic life experiences some time in the past are equally held responsible for the disorder. It can also develop as a result of a chaotic or unstable childhood environment with inconsistent parenting.
The neurological factors as suggested by some studies show that abnormalities in the brain, such as changes in the structure and function of the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and hippocampus, may be associated with BPD.
Certain temperamental personality traits, such as impulsivity, emotional sensitivity, and difficulty controlling emotions, are common among people with BPD. These traits may be present from an early age and may make an individual more susceptible to the disorder.
Treatment for borderline personality disorder
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
One of the most effective treatments for Bipolar personality disorder is DBT. In this type of therapy, a combination of elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy with mindfulness and acceptance-based strategies are made use of. The goal of DBT is to help people with BPD to better regulate their emotions, improve their interpersonal relationships, and reduce self-destructive behaviors.
DBT is a creative approach to therapy because it has a wide range of techniques, including group therapy, individual therapy, phone coaching, and skill-building exercises. Patients also get to learn skills such as emotion control, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness.
Virtual Reality Therapy
Virtual reality therapy is a present-day treatment method that is being used to treat a range of mental health conditions, including BPD. Virtual reality therapy involves using a computer-generated environment to simulate real-life situations and experiences.
Such therapies can be useful tool for BPD patients because it enables them to practice coping skills in a safe and controlled environment. For example, people may use virtual reality to practice mindfulness techniques in a simulated environment that triggers their anxiety. Virtual reality therapy can be delivered in a clinical setting or even in the comfort of an individual’s own home.
Group therapy
is especially helpful for people to improve their social skills and reduce their feeling of isolation where they get an opportunity to sit and interact with a bunch of people going through similar problems in life in a safe and supportive environment.
In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to ensure the safety of the individual with BPD. Inpatient treatment can provide intensive therapy and support to help manage symptoms and stabilize mood.
Other treatments for a borderline personality disorder are also encouraged for a journey toward self-discovery, a chance to gain self-management, and find peace in their lives.
Art Therapy
Art therapy is another creative method for BPD treatment. This involves using creative expression to explore and process emotions. It can be a useful technique for people with BPD who struggle with verbal expression of their feelings. This therapy can be delivered in an individual or a group setting too.
People here also get to use a variety of art materials such as paint, clay, and collage to create works that represent their emotions and experiences. Art therapy can be a valuable complement to other forms of therapy, such as DBT, as it allows individuals to express themselves in a nonverbal manner.
Animal-Assisted Therapy
Animal-assisted therapy is an engaging approach to BPD treatment that involves the use of animals, such as dogs or horses, to promote the emotional healing and well-being of the person. Animal-assisted therapy can help individuals with BPD build trust, improve communication skills, and reduce anxiety and depression.
This therapy also consists of activities such as grooming, walking, and playing with animals that’ll keep patients engaged. The presence of animals can help individuals with BPD feel more connected and grounded, which can be especially helpful during times of emotional distress.
Happiness Is Within Your Reach To Take!
Borderline Personality Disorder treatment may be a strenuous road but with perseverance, you’ll find the strength to shine bright and get a life that is full of possibility and positivity.
Call +1 (917) 267 8635 now for expert guidance on any mental health condition that you or a close one may be suffering from to find a life you’ll adore.