May is BPD Awareness Month

The month of May is recognized as borderline personality awareness month, also known as BPD. The month of May is dedicated to educating the public about this complex yet common, mental health condition.

About 5 million people in the US are diagnosed with BPD, and a projected 5.9% of the US population has an undiagnosed borderline personality disorder. The life expectancy of someone with BPD tends to be 20 years less, compared to the general population.

But what exactly is borderline personality disorder?

BPD is characterized by pervasive instability in moods, behavior, self-image, and interpersonal relationships. It often leads to significant distress and impairment in various aspects of life. Individuals with BPD often experience intense emotional responses and struggle with a fear of abandonment.

Symptoms of BPD can vary, especially among teenagers and adults, and can take years to diagnose. BPD is not commonly an official diagnosis for adolescents under 18. Rather, a diagnosis of this disorder is usually given during late adolescence or early adulthood.  A few common symptoms of BPD are mood swings, intense anger and/or irritability, impulsive actions (such as inappropriate online behavior, stealing, and self-harming and self-destructive behaviors.

At times, it can be extremely challenging to differentiate normal disobedient teenager behavior and signs of BPD. If your adolescent’s behavior becomes extreme, gradually or suddenly, it’s better to seek help, rather than wait until it’s too late.

Some prominent signs of borderline personality disorder are:

• Self-harm

• Paranoia

• Explosive anger

• Extreme impulsive behavior

• Constant mood swings throughout a short period of time

• Identity disturbance

• Self-destructive behavior

• Suicidal or homicidal ideations

Much like the diagnoses of BPD, the treatment of BPD is also complicated and comprehensive. When it comes to treatment for borderline personality disorder, a combination of psychotherapy and medication is often recommended. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) has shown effectiveness in helping individuals manage their emotions and develop coping strategies. Medications may also be prescribed to address specific symptoms such as depression or anxiety. But there is no medication, specifically approved for BPD, which can cause many challenges. However, Medications may be prescribed to help manage specific symptoms such as mood instability or anxiety, which are sometimes, sub-symptoms of BPD.

Bringing awareness to BPD not only helps to reduce the stigma around this disorder but it also encourages people who are affected to seek support and help. I hope that by spreading knowledge about what BPD entails – its diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment options, we can help support ourselves and loved ones on their journey towards healing and recovery. We want them to LIVE not just survive!

As usual, thank you all for taking your time to read on this topic, which is very personal to me. I appreciate all of your love, stories, support and feedback.