Borderline Personality Disorder: Understand, Manage and Thrive

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition characterised by unstable moods, intense emotions, and difficulties in relationships and self-image. These symptoms can significantly disrupt your daily life, relationships and overall wellbeing.

Understanding and addressing BPD is essential to building stability and improving your quality of life.

What Causes Borderline Personality Disorder?

BPD arises from a combination of genetic, environmental and neurological factors. Common contributing factors include:

• Family history of mental illness
• Traumatic experiences or childhood adversity
• Neurochemical imbalances
• Difficulties with emotional regulation

Recognise the Signs of BPD

Typical symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder include:

• Intense fear of abandonment
• Unstable and intense relationships
• Rapid mood swings and emotional instability
• Impulsive behaviours (e.g., substance abuse, reckless spending)
• Feelings of emptiness or lack of identity
• Severe anger and difficulty controlling temper
• Self-harming behaviours or suicidal thoughts
• Paranoid thoughts or dissociative symptoms

Myths about Borderline Personality Disorder

Myth: People with BPD are just attention-seeking. Truth: BPD involves real emotional distress and serious challenges in regulating emotions and behaviours.

Myth: Borderline Personality Disorder can't be treated effectively. Truth: With professional support, individuals with BPD can manage symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

Importance of Seeking Professional Help

Untreated BPD can severely impact your quality of life and relationships. Professional support can:

• Improve emotional regulation
• Stabilise interpersonal relationships
• Develop effective coping strategies
• Enhance self-awareness and emotional resilience

How MeHelp Psychology Can Support You

MeHelp Psychology provides specialised treatments tailored to managing Borderline Personality Disorder, including:

• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): Strategies specifically designed for emotional regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, mindfulness and distress tolerance.
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Techniques to identify and challenge distorted thinking and behaviours.
• Schema Therapy: Addressing deep-seated emotional patterns and self-image issues.
• Personalised Treatment Plans: Focused therapy sessions tailored specifically to your needs and life goals.

Real-Life Example

Alex, 30, struggled for years with intense emotional swings and unstable relationships. After beginning treatment with MeHelp Psychology using DBT and Schema Therapy, Alex developed stronger emotional control, healthier relationships, and a clearer sense of identity. Today, Alex leads a more stable, confident, and fulfilling life.

Practical Steps You Can Take Today

• Practice Mindfulness: Regular mindfulness helps you manage intense emotions.
• Develop Healthy Boundaries: Clearly define and communicate your limits in relationships.
• Emotion Journaling: Writing about your feelings can increase emotional awareness and control.
• Establish Routine: Predictable daily routines provide emotional stability.
• Seek Peer Support: Connecting with supportive communities or groups can reduce feelings of isolation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is online therapy effective for Borderline Personality Disorder?

Yes. Online therapy, particularly structured therapies like DBT, has proven effective and accessible for managing BPD.

Can medication help manage BPD symptoms?

Medication can assist in managing specific symptoms like mood swings or anxiety. However, psychotherapy is the primary treatment approach. Consulting a psychologist or psychiatrist can help determine your ideal treatment plan.

Do Medicare rebates cover therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder?

Yes. With a Mental Health Care Plan from your GP, you can access Medicare rebates for psychological treatment related to BPD.

Take Your First Step Towards Stability

Living a balanced, fulfilling life with Borderline Personality Disorder is possible. At MeHelp Psychology, our dedicated professionals are here to support your journey.

Book your first session today and start building a life of emotional stability and meaningful connections.

‍