Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition that can make everyday life feel overwhelming. It affects how a person feels, thinks, and relates to others. At Milton Recovery, we understand how painful and confusing BPD can be, and we’re here to help.
What Does BPD Feel Like?
People living with BPD often experience:
- Intense emotions that change quickly
- Feeling unsure about who they are
- Struggles in relationships
- Trouble managing anger or sadness
Many say it feels like being on an emotional rollercoaster. One moment things feel fine, and the next, everything seems to fall apart. These emotional swings can lead to impulsive choices and feelings of emptiness.
Common Signs of BPD
BPD can show up in different ways. Some common symptoms include:
- Fear of being left or abandoned
- Ups and downs in close relationships
- Changing self-image or goals
- Strong emotions that come and go quickly
- Risky behaviors like fast driving, overspending, or drug use
- Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
These symptoms often come from a deep need for connection and fear of being alone. While these reactions may offer short-term relief, they can lead to more pain over time.
Why Does BPD Happen?
There’s no single cause of BPD. It often develops through a mix of factors:
Brain and Body
- Differences in brain function, especially in areas tied to emotions and impulse control
- Low levels of serotonin, a brain chemical that affects mood
- Family history of BPD or other mental health conditions
Life Experiences
- Trauma or abuse during childhood
- Neglect or unstable home life
- Growing up without consistent emotional support
These experiences can shape how someone sees themselves and others. When combined with brain and body differences, they may lead to BPD symptoms.
Getting a Diagnosis
A mental health provider can diagnose BPD by talking through symptoms, life history, and behaviors. This often includes:
- A full mental health assessment
- Review of medical and emotional history
- Looking at how a person reacts in relationships and stressful situations
At Milton Recovery Centers, we take time to understand each patient’s unique story so we can offer the most helpful care and create a personalized treatment plan.
How Is Borderline Personality Disorder Treated?
With the right treatment, people with Borderline Personality Disorder can feel better and build a stable life. The most effective therapy for BPD is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). It teaches skills in:
- Mindfulness – staying grounded in the present
- Distress Tolerance – coping with emotional pain
- Emotion Regulation – learning to manage strong feelings
- Interpersonal Effectiveness – building healthy relationships
Other helpful therapies may include:
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Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT is one of the most effective treatments for BPD. It teaches essential skills in four key areas: mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. This therapy helps individuals manage intense emotions and reduce self-harming behaviors.
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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals with BPD recognize and change unhelpful thought patterns that lead to emotional instability and impulsive actions. It focuses on building coping strategies and improving problem-solving skills.
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Motivational Interviewing (MI): People with BPD often struggle with ambivalence about making lasting changes. MI enhances motivation by helping individuals explore their goals and values in a supportive, nonjudgmental setting.
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12-Step Facilitation Therapy: While not a direct treatment for BPD, this approach provides structure, community, and spiritual grounding that can be especially helpful for those with co-occurring substance use disorders and emotional dysregulation.
Treatment may also involve:
- One-on-one therapy
- Group sessions
- Family therapy
- Medication (if needed)
- Crisis planning and safety support
BPD vs. Bipolar Disorder: What’s the Difference?
BPD and Bipolar Disorder may look similar, but they are different:
|
Feature |
BPD |
Bipolar |
|
Mood Changes |
Happen fast (hours) |
Last for days or weeks |
|
Triggers |
Caused by events or people |
Can happen without reason |
|
Feelings |
Fear of being left, unstable self-image |
Mood highs (mania) and lows (depression) |
Each condition needs its own treatment plan. BPD is treated mainly with therapy. Bipolar Disorder often requires medication.
Our Approach to Borderline Personality Disorder Treatment at Milton
We offer a full range of support for patients with BPD. Our team builds care plans based on each person’s needs. Treatment includes:
- One-on-One Counseling – helping patients build self-awareness and emotional control
- Group Therapy – practicing relationship skills in a safe setting
- Family Education and Support – helping loved ones understand and offer support
- Mindfulness and Coping Tools – teaching ways to stay grounded
Recovery is possible. With care, support, and time, patients with BPD can learn to manage emotions, build stronger relationships, and lead meaningful lives. You don’t have to go through this alone. Contact Milton Recovery Centers today.
