Borderline Personality Disorder Treatment

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) can affect many aspects of a person's life, influencing the way they think, feel, and respond to the world around them.

People with BPD may face challenges in maintaining healthy relationships, and some symptoms can have serious consequences. Although certain symptoms may resemble those of other mental health conditions, the combination of difficulties associated with BPD can be particularly challenging.

If you or someone close to you is struggling with BPD, support and treatment are available.

What Is Borderline Personality Disorder?

Borderline personality disorder is a serious mental health condition, but with the right care it can be effectively treated.

Individuals with BPD often experience intense emotional highs and lows and may struggle to manage their feelings. These emotional difficulties can affect relationships, lead to impulsive decision-making, and contribute to behaviors that may be harmful or self-destructive.

Borderline Personality Disorder Symptoms

Common signs and symptoms of borderline personality disorder include:

• Intense efforts to prevent real or perceived abandonment
• A history of unstable or changing relationships
• An unclear or shifting sense of identity or self-worth
• Impulsive behaviors that may be risky or harmful, such as substance misuse, unsafe sexual activity, or reckless driving
• Self-injurious actions or suicidal thoughts and behaviors
• Ongoing feelings of emptiness
• Rapid and intense mood changes
• Difficulty managing anger or inappropriate expressions of anger
• Dissociation, which may feel like being detached from your thoughts, emotions, or sense of self

Not everyone diagnosed with BPD will experience every symptom listed above. Some individuals may have only a few symptoms, while others may experience many over time. Symptoms often begin during the teen years or early adulthood, although warning signs can sometimes appear earlier in childhood.

Co-Occurring Disorders

Diagnosing BPD can be challenging because it frequently occurs alongside other mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, or substance use disorders. During a mental health evaluation, it is important to discuss all symptoms and concerns so your care team can develop an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Borderline Personality Disorder Treatment

With appropriate treatment, people with BPD can lead meaningful, productive, and rewarding lives. Treatment may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

While there is no medication specifically approved to cure BPD, certain medications can help manage symptoms and address co-occurring conditions such as depression or anxiety. Antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and other medications may be recommended to help reduce severe mood fluctuations and improve emotional stability.

Medication is often used alongside psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy. One commonly used approach is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which helps individuals recognize and change unhelpful thought patterns and core beliefs. CBT can also teach practical skills for managing emotions, improving relationships, and developing healthier coping strategies.

Individuals experiencing severe symptoms, particularly if there is a risk of harm to themselves or others, may benefit from inpatient mental health treatment. Once their condition has stabilized and around-the-clock support is no longer needed, they may transition to outpatient care. Those who are not experiencing a crisis may begin treatment directly through outpatient services.

Our inpatient and outpatient programs typically include therapy and medication management. Patients may also have access to holistic treatment options such as art therapy, music therapy, mindfulness practices, and wellness education programs.

Getting Help for Borderline Personality Disorder

Receiving an accurate diagnosis is an important first step, as BPD symptoms can resemble those of other mental health conditions and may sometimes be misidentified.

To get help at Brentwood Behavioral Health, you can schedule a confidential, no-obligation assessment by calling or chatting with our team at any time, day or night. Walk-in assessments are also available.

During your assessment, our team will learn more about your symptoms, personal history, and any emotional, behavioral, or physical health concerns you may be experiencing. Using this information, we will work closely with you to create a personalized treatment plan designed to support your recovery goals and overall well-being.