Hello guys. Are you having a good day? I hope you’re doing well. But tell yourself honestly, are you safe and sound for real? We often say that everything is fine even though we suffer inside. If you do as well, know that you are not alone. Many people around us wage silent battles every day. Emotional diseases are the problem of this 21st century. Fortunately, there are ways to mitigate their effects. Today we’ll talk about Borderline Personality Disorder.
What are the behaviors and feelings of someone with BPD? This person is characterized by a negative attitude towards the world, withdrawal, or an excessive desire to lead others. These people tend to be inflexible and find it tough to fit in with the group. However, what is often the result is emotional lability. It manifests itself in rapid anger, impulsiveness, and a tendency to self-aggression. People with BPD have a strong desire for a very close, exclusive relationship with the other person. At the same time, they fear being “swallowed up” by the other person. And if that was not enough, they feel an extreme fear of abandonment. All this causes problems in social and professional functioning. People affected by this disorder often feel emptiness and tremendous anxiety. They cannot build stable relationships. Their relationships are turbulent.
What causes BPD? The reasons are not fully understood. Many factors can influence the development of this disorder. Among them, we can distinguish those that result from neglect by the caregiver, such as not showing affection, excessive criticism, improper communication. People with a borderline personality disorder often see their mother as aloof, disengaged, or conflicting. Genetic factors can also influence the development of BPD. Some genes can cause increased anxiety, emotional lability, or instability.
To diagnose BPD, an interview with a therapist is necessary. We advise you not to self-diagnose yourself by using this test. It is only intended to indicate what to pay attention to if we seek help. The following issues help diagnose this disorder. If at least 5 factors agree with your case, you might suspect that you struggle with BPD. However, a therapeutic consultation is necessary to dispel your doubts and obtain a detailed diagnosis of your symptoms.
A person with BPD often puts a tremendous effort into avoiding the alleged abandonment. Has unstable and turbulent relationships with others which hesitate between idealizing or depriving worth. They have a clear and permanently unstable self-image. They’re also distinguished by dangerous impulsiveness in at least two areas of life (for example, spending, substance abuse, reckless driving). They may also have recurrent suicidal tendencies. The patient can also be overly volatile in moods and emotional responses, dependent on constantly changing conditions. Such a person often feels a chronic sense of emptiness. Also, their behavior is inappropriate to the situation, and the anger they feel is difficult to control. As a result of stress, paranoid imaginations or very intense dissociative symptoms can occur.
What to do if someone close to you has Borderline Personality Disorder? The main thing is to know the specifics of this disease and understand that sometimes it is the disease that speaks, not our loved one. It is vital to learn when the disorder is taking over. Not taking personally what the person is doing or saying can make your life easier. You are not responsible for the behavior of the sick person. It is necessary to set clear boundaries in the relationship. Otherwise, it may negatively affect our self-esteem. It is crucial to avoid conflicts and listen carefully to your interlocutor. Speak slowly, confidently, and on your own behalf. Be honest and consistent. Reflect feelings, do not absorb them. Try to defuse the patient’s emotions by suggesting activities they like. It is worth learning about this disorder to live with such a person and help them in the best possible way. Only then will we not hurt and inflict additional pain. Remember that life of a person with BPD may be awfully tough. Daily, they may feel as if they are standing on a precipice.
Sometimes everyone feels empty, has tantrums or relationship problems. However, if you are concerned about something, talking to a therapist can really help you. They will not judge or criticize but will help you look at your problems and advise you on what can be done.
Everyone, remember that this test is not a diagnosis! It is only meant to draw attention to the problem and, perhaps, persuade those who are suffering to seek help. If you are such a person, remember that it does not have to be this way all the time. If you work with a therapist, they can help you significantly improve your quality of life. Do not give up! We’re with you. Take this test to focus on the analysis to conclude if you have BPD-like tendencies.
