A borderline personality disorder is a psychological disorder that refers to an individual’s way of thinking and behaving about themselves and others as well. Negative thoughts and feelings such as distorted self-image, emotional instability, impulsive behaviour, unstable relationship, etc. The negative thoughts and behaviours are so intense that it disrupts the normal functioning of the individual’s life.
What are the symptoms of Borderline personality disorder?
The symptoms of borderline personality are different for every individual. Some common symptoms include:
- Unstable self-image
- Very frequent mood swings
- The severe and long-term feeling of emptiness
- Unstable relationships- devaluing the opponent partner or family member, or friends
- Suicidal attempts or other forms of self-harming
- Impulsive behaviors like- abuse of substances, gambling, binge eating, sudden anger, quitting a job, etc.
- Paranoia
How is it diagnosed?
An individual is diagnosed through observation of symptoms and any prior medical history. On the basis of the observations by a therapist or psychologist, they might perform further tests such as psychological assessments to understand the condition better.
What causes Borderline personality disorder?
Just as with other mental disorders, there is no exact cause of borderline personality disorder. However, a few common factors that can lead to borderline personality disorder include:
- Genetics or family history- Any family member who has a history of borderline personality disorder or any other mental disorder, it is likely that the disorder may be carried forward onto their next generations.
- Abnormality in the brain structure- Some individuals may have any abnormal brain structure or any abnormality in the functioning of the brain, which can lead to borderline personality disorder. Also, sometimes abnormalities in the production of serotonin, which is the hormone responsible for our mood, can make an individual prone to develop a borderline personality disorder.
- Any negative experience or trauma- Any childhood negative experiences such as abuse or neglect can lead to borderline personality disorder but may not be the only reason what causes it.
Treatment of Borderline personality disorder:
Professionals, who specialize in it, should do the treatment for borderline personality disorder. The treatment of borderline personality disorder comprises of three methods: medication, psychotherapy, and hospitalization.
- Medication- Medicines are prescribed to manage the symptoms of borderline personality disorder because no medicine can cure this order. Anti-depressants are prescribed to manage depression, antianxiety medicines are given to manage anxiety, and antipsychotics are given to manage symptoms of aggressiveness.
- Psychotherapy- Therapy is believed to be the ideal and most effective form of treatment for borderline personality disorder. Therapists often suggest cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for treating borderline personality disorder as it helps in identifying the negative thoughts and helps individuals in strategizing ways to overcome them.
- Hospitalisation- Individuals who suffer from severe symptoms that cannot be controlled, are hospitalised.
Borderline personality disorder can be managed if diagnosed early, and the appropriate treatment is provided on time. Do not hesitate to seek professional help if you or your loved ones have any symptoms of it.
