Misconceptions about Borderline Personality Disorder by Sarah Hart, LCPC, C-DBT
Often times when clients begin therapy, they are curious as to what their symptoms mean; whether or not they have a “diagnosis.” While a specific diagnosis is certainly not necessary to benefit from therapy, some feel empowered and validated to understand where some of their struggles come from. It also can help clients and therapists to determine the best course of treatment for symptoms. On the other hand, some clients may be fearful to be diagnosed due to a “label” or negative misconception associated with the diagnosis. Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is one common, yet at times, confusing diagnosis with aspects often misunderstood. Clients and their support systems are often looking for guidance to better understand BPD. Let’s break down some of the common misconceptions surrounding BPD…
Borderline Personality Disorder means you’re “crazy.”
The diagnosis of BPD is far from identifying with the stigma of being “crazy.” BPD often times has a dual diagnosis with other mental health struggles, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, addiction and eating disorders. Some of the most common symptoms include unstable relationships, impulsive behaviors, mood swings with difficulty regulating emotions, intense feelings of anger, fears of abandonment, struggles with self-esteem and identity, suicidal thoughts and/or self harm behaviors, and feelings of emptiness. Individuals with BPD do not need to experience all these symptoms for a diagnosis. Typically, they meet 5 criteria for a diagnosis. Again, experiencing some of the aforementioned symptoms is a far cry from being an unstable individual.
Those with Borderline Personality Disorder just want attention;
don’t take them seriously, especially with suicidal ideations.
It is a common misconception that individuals with BPD are seeking attention when they may engage in self-harm behaviors or disclose that they are struggling with suicidal thoughts. At times, this can lead to a lack of support or proper treatment, which can be quite dangerous. Typically, when an individual struggles with these urges, thoughts and behaviors, it is because they are under significant distress and are not equipped with the proper tools to cope, thus leading to maladaptive behaviors. It is important they are met with empathy and support to ensure their safety and well-being.
Borderline Personality Disorder is rare.
Statistically, BPD affects millions of individuals throughout the world. In fact, the estimate is between 2 to 6 million people, approximately 1 in 50 are suffering from this diagnosis. As previously mentioned, BPD is often a co-occurring disorder along with other mental health diagnoses. As a result, it can often be looked over and missed in regard to diagnosis.
There is no treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder.
When individuals hear “personality disorder,” they often associate this with being “doomed.” It is common to hear people believe there is no treatment available for personality disorders. This could not be further from the truth. There are several different modalities mental health professionals utilize to treat BPD. While the most common and very effective treatment is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), therapists also utilize trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, mentalization based therapy (MBT) and transference focused therapy. Additionally, there are medications such as mood stabilizers and antidepressants that can help treat the symptoms and co-occuring disorders as well. It is important to tailor treatment to each person based on their needs. With the proper support and treatment, BPD can become very manageable.
Individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder cannot
live an independent and full, meaningful life.
With the appropriate treatment and support, individuals with BPD are often able to live out their lives in the way they aspire to. BPD does not restrict individuals from being able to complete schooling or have successful careers or families. It is important to be mindful of this stigma and continue to encourage individuals with BPD to strive towards their goals and focus on taking care of themselves. Just because recovery is difficult, does not mean it is impossible.
While Borderline Personality Disorder can be a difficult struggle, it is not a damning one. There are plenty of resources and help available to anyone struggling with their mental health. Do not fall prey to misconceptions regarding a diagnosis; treatment is available. Remember to seek out the appropriate professional support as well as that from family and friends.
If you find yourself struggling, please reach out to Lotus Therapy Group at 708-552-7330.
