What is BPD?
Borderline personality disorder involves a pervasive pattern of instability in relationships, self-image and emotions, plus marked impulsivity, starting by early adulthood. Features include intense fear of abandonment, unstable relationships, chronic emptiness, intense anger, recurrent self-harm or suicidal thoughts and stress-related paranoia or dissociation. Diagnosis requires professional assessment.
Treatment and recovery
Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), developed by Marsha Linehan, teaches emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal skills and mindfulness. Long-term studies show many people improve substantially over time.
Where to get help
- Korea
- 109 (suicide prevention), 1577-0199 (mental health crisis)
- US
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
- UK/Ireland
- Samaritans 116 123
- Emergency
- Local emergency number
This article is general information, not a diagnosis or medical advice. If you are concerned, please consult a qualified health professional.
Frequently asked questions
- Is BPD treatable?
- Yes; DBT and other therapies are effective and many people improve over time.
- How can I support someone with BPD?
- Validate feelings, keep consistent boundaries and encourage professional treatment.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. (2022). DSM-5-TR (borderline personality disorder).
- Linehan, M. M. (1993). Cognitive-behavioral treatment of borderline personality disorder. Guilford Press.
- Gunderson, J. G., Herpertz, S. C., Skodol, A. E., Torgersen, S., & Zanarini, M. C. (2018). Borderline personality disorder. Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 4, 18029.