May is Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) awareness month. The best way to observe BPD awareness month is by educating yourself and your family or friends about the disorder. If you know someone struggling or being affected by BPD it is important to be knowledgeable and understand their struggles. During BPD Awareness Month, it is important that we work together to reduce the stigma and provide support for those living with BPD. BPD is one of the most misunderstood diagnoses in mental health and, unfortunately, comes with serious stigma and negative baggage not only from general public but at times mental health professionals as well.
BPD has a wide range of symptoms and due to so much overlap with other mental health disorders it becomes hard to diagnose. BPD also rarely occurs alone and is often accompanied by co-occurring concerns like major depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, substance use disorders eating disorders, and anxiety disorders. Many individuals with BPD have been on or are on many medications but yet there has been no medication that has been researched or approved for the specific treatment of BPD. The best way to diagnose BPD is through a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional, which includes a thorough assessment of personal and family mental and physical health (Cleveland Clinic, 2022).
Here are some quick facts about BPD:
1. Over 14 million Americans suffer from BPD.
2. People with BPD commit suicide at 400 times the rate of the general population
3. BPD is associated with a higher incidence of suicide attempts, substance abuse, eating disorders and depression.
4. Individuals with BPD have extreme swings in their moods, feelings, behavior and self-image.
5. Women are three times more likely than men to be diagnosed with BPD.
6. BPD is treatable, through therapy and medication.
7. The average time from the onset of symptoms to diagnosis is 10 years.
8. Approximately 50% of people with BPD experience significant improvement in their symptoms within 5 years with treatment.
9. BPD often co-occurs with other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Health scientists and researchers have not identified a clear cause of BPD. However, the latest research indicates the following elements may play a role in the development of the disorder:
· Genetics. People with a close relative – a parent or sibling – may be at increased risk of BPD.
· Neurobiological factors. Research shows people diagnosed with BPD sometimes have structural and functional changes in the areas of the brain that regulate emotions and control impulses. Scientists have not identified whether these structural and functional changes are the cause of the disorder, or a result of the disorder.
· Environmental factors. People with BPD often report a history of trauma, such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, adverse childhood experiences, or exposure to violence and/or hostile conflicts (NIH, 2022).
If you are searching for a therapist or counselor you can learn more about tips to starting therapy here or use a directory service where you can narrow your search based on types of therapy, insurance, location, etc.. therapy directories to get started can include https://www.therapyden.com/ or mental health match.
If you are interested in connecting directly with Mindful Solutions you can reach out via email (mindfulsolutions@itherapymail.com), phone (619-353-5139), or book your free 30 minute consultation on our website!
*Although I am a therapist by profession, I am not YOUR therapist. This article is for informational and educational purposes only, does not replace therapy and does not establish any kind of therapist-client relationship with me. I am not liable or responsible for any damages resulting from or related to your use of this information. To see more information about our disclamer(s): https://www.mindfulsolutionscorp.com/disclaimers
Additional Resources for BPD:
References:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9762-borderline-personality-disorder-bpd (Cleveland Clinic, 2022)
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