What is Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
Trigger warning: You may find the following content upsetting. If you require support, please refer to our services directory.
BPD, affecting 1-2% of the UK population, is most common in early adulthood, with 75% of cases occurring in women. It is also now being treated in child and early adult mental health services.
BPD leads to emotional regulation and impulse control challenges, with 75% of those diagnosed with BPD attempting suicide and 10% resulting in death.
BPD experiences vary widely due to its diverse symptoms, which can overlap with conditions like depression, anxiety, eating disorders, PTSD, drug and alcohol abuse, and bipolar disorder.
Other terms for BPD include Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD) and Emotional Intensity Disorder (EID) - it’s down to personal preference, and some prefer no label at all.
A brief overview of BPD follows, with more extensive information provided in our BPD booklet.
Symptoms
A diagnosis can lead to better treatment options, improved quality of life, and reduced symptoms that often lessen with age.
It typically refers to 9 symptoms of BPD over a long period with detrimental effects on daily life.
There are 256 possible symptom combinations, and symptoms affect everyone differently.
The nine main symptoms of BPD
Causes
BPD is a biologically based disorder caused by brain chemicals and development, as well as genetics, environment, or a combination of both.
Developmental factors like stress, childhood trauma, or growing up in a hostile or unstable/unsettled environment’ can also contribute.
Treatment
Despite popular belief, BPD is treatable and manageable with medication and/or psychotherapy, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Mentalisation-Based Therapy (MBT), and art therapies. There is no specific medication for BPD, though some can help with co-morbid conditions, such as bipolar, depression, and anxiety.
NHS treatment has improved significantly. Consult your GP to find out local services and support for family members and caregivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Services Directory
We have compiled a handy directory of wide-ranging resources across the UK, offering help in a crisis or with suicidal thoughts, and information on BPD and numerous associated conditions.