Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental illness that disrupts the lives of 4.6 million adults in the United States. This disorder affects the ways individuals view themselves, their relationships, and other people. One of the hallmarks of this disorder is an exacerbated fear of abandonment, which can trigger irrationality, mood swings, and intense anger. Typically people with this disorder have difficulty regulating their emotions and behavior and have a poor self-image.
Symptoms of BPD generally present in early adulthood, though they may be present in childhood or adolescence. Borderline personality disorder tends to be more intense in early adulthood and symptoms may gradually get better with age or with treatment.
Oftentimes, BPD presents alongside other mental health issues, such as:
There is no doubt that personality disorders and mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder, are some of the most common mental health conditions. However, it is important to understand that while these two types of conditions may seem to share many similarities, they are very different from one another.
For example, personality disorders, such as BPD, impact an individual’s ability to properly regulate their emotions and behaviors, leading to interpersonal consequences. Mood disorders like depression affect an individual’s general mood and demeanor, but do not impact their behaviors and relationships in the same dramatic way. Additionally, mood disorders are believed to be primarily caused by biological makeup, whereas most personality disorders are caused by environmental factors like abuse and other forms of trauma.
The most important thing to consider when attempting to decipher between personality disorders and mood disorders is to be aware of what the symptoms of each condition are. Those with a borderline personality disorder will exhibit symptoms much differently than those with a mood disorder.
Borderline personality disorder shares many symptoms with other mental illnesses, making it difficult to diagnose appropriately. However, there are specific characteristics of BPD that help mental health professionals identify the disorder. These characteristics relate to a person’s behavior, mood, and how they interact with others.
Signs and symptoms of borderline personality disorder include:
Like many mental health disorders, the exact cause of borderline personality disorder is largely unknown. Some research has shown that the onset of BPD is the result of changes in the brain responsible for emotional regulation, aggression, and impulsivity. Evidence has suggested that chemicals in the brain responsible for mood regulation are not working optimally in individuals with BPD.
Genetics may also play a role in the development of borderline personality disorder. Mental illness tends to run in families. If a person has a close family member who struggles with this disorder or other mental health concerns, there is an increased risk of developing BPD.
Though heredity factors and brain abnormalities might increase the likelihood of developing BPD, environmental factors that affect personality development are also thought to play a role. These include:
It is not uncommon for individuals living with BPD to be diagnosed with one or more co-occurring mental health concerns. These include:
A borderline personality disorder affects a person’s perception of interpersonal relationships. As a result, BPD can negatively affect school, work, social activities, and personal and romantic relationships. If left untreated, a borderline personality disorder can have long-lasting consequences that can seriously compromise a person’s quality of life. Typical risks and complications of borderline personality disorder include:
Do not let borderline personality disorder prevent you from living the life you truly deserve. At Neuroscience Institute in West Palm Beach, FL, our compassionate multidisciplinary team will work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that best suits your specific needs. With many holistic strategies and evidence-based interventions available, we are dedicated to helping you find relief from your symptoms and improving your overall mental wellness. Our borderline personality disorder treatment centers are waiting with open arms to help you get the assistance you deserve today. Get started today by giving us a call or visiting our admissions page.