7 Strategies to Deal with Borderline Personality Traits
7 Strategies to Deal with Borderline Personality Traits
July 09 2024 TalktoAngel 0 comments 539 Views
Pervasive patterns of instability in emotions, self-image, and interpersonal interactions are hallmarks of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), a complicated mental health illness. People with BPD often struggle with intense emotional experiences, impulsive behaviors, and chronic feelings of emptiness or fear of abandonment. It is categorized under Cluster B personality disorders in the DSM-5 (301.83) and F60.3 in ICD-10. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), BPD is classified under personality disorders and is defined by a persistent pattern of instability in personal relationships, self-image, and emotions, along with marked impulsivity. The International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10), also recognizes BPD under the category of emotionally unstable personality disorder, specifically the borderline type.
Symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
BPD manifests through a variety of symptoms, which include:
- Intense fear of abandonment
- Unstable and intense relationships
- Distorted self-image
- Impulsive or risky behaviors
- Self-harming behaviors or suicidal ideation
- Severe mood swings
- Chronic feelings of emptiness
- Inappropriate, intense anger
- Stress-related paranoia or dissociation
Causes of Borderline Personality Disorder
The exact cause of BPD is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors. Trauma, especially during childhood, such as physical, emotional, or sexual abuse, neglect, or separation from caregivers, plays a significant role. Genetics also contribute, as individuals with a family history of BPD or other mental health disorders are at higher risk. Neurologically, abnormalities in brain function related to emotional regulation and impulse control are common in individuals with BPD.
BPD in Men and Women
While BPD is more commonly diagnosed in women, men also suffer from the disorder but are often misdiagnosed with other conditions such as PTSD or depression. Women with BPD may exhibit more mood swings and intense emotional responses, whereas men may display more impulsive behaviors, such as substance abuse or aggression.
Types of Borderline Personality
BPD can present in various subtypes, including:
1. Impulsive Borderline: Characterized by impulsivity and unpredictable behaviors.
2. Discouraged Borderline: Features include dependency, passive-aggressiveness, and self-doubt.
3. Petulant Borderline: Marked by moodiness, stubbornness, and irritability.
4. Self-Destructive Borderline: consists of risky pursuits, suicide ideation, and self-harm.
7 Uncommon Techniques to Manage Borderline Personality Traits
1. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Skills Training: DBT, developed by Dr. Marsha Linehan, is specifically designed for BPD and focuses on teaching skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. One effective DBT technique is the "TIP" (Temperature, Intense exercise, Paced breathing), which is a distress tolerance technique for reducing emotional intensity.
2. Mentalization-Based Therapy (MBT): MBT aims to improve the ability to understand and interpret one's own and others' mental states. This helps in recognizing the difference between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, reducing impulsive actions, and improving relationships.
3. Schema Therapy: Schema Therapy combines elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy, attachment theory, and emotion-focused therapy to address deeply ingrained patterns of thinking and behavior. It helps individuals identify and change negative schemas that influence their perceptions and reactions.
4. Art Therapy: Engaging in creative activities such as painting, drawing, or sculpting can provide an outlet for expressing emotions and processing experiences. Art therapy helps in exploring feelings, reducing stress, and improving self-awareness.
5. Mindfulness Meditation: Mindfulness practices, such as guided meditation, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation, can help individuals stay grounded in the present moment, reduce emotional reactivity, and enhance emotional regulation.
6. Self-Authoring: Writing a biography of your life and hypothetical future can induce insight. Putting personal narratives down on paper starts forming a coherent identity and life goals.
7. Transference-Focused Psychotherapy (TFP): TFP focuses on the relationship between the patient and therapist to explore and understand patterns of interaction. This therapy aims to integrate fragmented perceptions of self and others, fostering a more stable and coherent self-identity.
Real-Life Examples
Consider Ariya, a 28-year-old woman with BPD who struggled with intense mood swings and impulsive decisions. Through DBT provided by the best psychologist, she learned to use mindfulness techniques and the "TIP" skill to manage her emotions. By practicing paced breathing and engaging in intense exercise, Ariya was able to reduce her emotional intensity and respond more calmly to stressors.
Researchers have emphasized the importance of empathy and understanding for individuals with BPD. They have discussed how BPD is often stigmatized and misunderstood, leading to further emotional pain for those affected. Therefore, there is a need for greater awareness and compassion in dealing with BPD, highlighting the need for supportive relationships and effective communication.
In conclusion, managing BPD requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the emotional, cognitive, and behavioral aspects of the disorder. By understanding the underlying causes and implementing uncommon techniques such as DBT, MBT, and mindfulness practices, individuals with BPD can achieve greater emotional stability and improve their quality of life. Seeking professional help from top psychologists or an online counsellor and being open to various therapeutic interventions is crucial in navigating the complexities of BPD and fostering long-term positive change.
Contributed by: Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Clinical Psychologist & Life Coach & Mr. Utkarsh Yadav, Counselling Psychologist
References:
National Collaborating Centre for Mental Health: Borderline personality disorder: treatment and management in NICE clinical guideline. London: National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence; 2009
https://ctrinstitute.com/blog/9-strategies-supporting-bpd-2/
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