What Is Borderline Personality Disorder?
It is a long standing pattern that begins by early adulthood and shows up across settings. The DSM requires five or more symptoms such as:
- Intense fear of abandonment
- Unstable self image
- Chaotic relationships at work or in dating
- Impulsivity in at least two areas
- Marked mood lability, and disproportionate anger
- Chronic emptiness
- Dissociation or transient micropsychotic symptoms
- Recurrent self harm or suicidal behavior
Why It Is Considered In Behavioral Health
The heart of treatment is psychotherapy. Medication can help with specific targets such as sleep, anxiety, or mood swings, but therapy delivers the main benefit.
How Do You Treat Borderline Personality Disorder?
- Dialectical behavior therapy for emotion regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness
- Mentalization based therapy to improve understanding of self and others
- Psychodynamic therapy for patterns that repeat across life
- Clear goals and measurement such as reducing self harm days, improving job stability, and strengthening relationships
Author: Dr. Hong Yin
Hong Yin, MD, has been a practicing medical professional in the Milwaukee community since 2012. She understands that your health and wellness concerns extend beyond routine medical care. She’s a highly trained, board-certified psychiatrist who provides an array of comprehensive services and procedures to help people overcome mental health problems.