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Borderline Personality or Emotionally Unstable Personality are personality disorders. They may be characterised by having problems with interpersonal relationships, low self worth, and confused perception of others.

The causes of BPD or EUPD are not fully understood but it is believed that genetic and environmental factors both play a part. Childhood trauma is another potential trigger.

You may get a diagnosis of BPD/EUPD if you have a history of:

  • Intense but unstable personal relationships with others
  • Self damaging behaviour
  • Impulsive or dangerous behaviour
  • A distorted sense of self
  • A fear of abandonment
  • Intense emotions that can last for hours or several days and change suddenly
  • Dissociation
  • Strong feelings of anxiety or feeling empty
  • Moods which swing from high to low rapidly. A feeling of going from 0-60 in 5 seconds flat.
  • Finding it difficult to understand or identify moods or emotions that you are feeling.

A licensed mental health professional should carry out a diagnosis of BPD, for example psychiatrists, psychologists or clinical social workers. In order to get a referral to these professionals, you will first need to seek support from your primary care doctor. A diagnosis will usually include a thorough interview that discusses your life and your symptoms, a medical exam to rule out alternative causes for the problems and taking a family medical history.

Treatment for BPD/EUPD is usually a combination of medication and psychological treatment. Therapies such as CBT or DBT can be helpful in teaching you to manage your condition. Medication is not a cure but it can help to reduce the symptoms to a manageable level.

If you suspect that you or anybody close to you is suffering from BPD please seek the support of a medical professional to help put you in touch with the right services for you.

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