Managing Money - Issues for Those With Borderline Personality Disorder

It's not unusual for people with borderline personality disorder to struggle with financial problems. Often the challenges in daily living a BP faces are made worse by a chronic lack of money. Creditors may even be calling, which can feel like verification of your worst thoughts about yourself.

People with BPD can have issues with any number of financial issues, including:

Impulsive behaviors that can include excessive spending

One of the diagnostic criteria for BPD is impulsive behavior that is potentially self-damaging. One potential behavior is excessive spending, and once that starts it can easily feel out of control, and even trigger more spending to deal with the consequences and the emotional reaction to having spent the money in the first place.

Alcohol and drug use may also result in cash flow issues

Another common issue for those with borderline personality is substance use and/or abuse. Most often the issue of substance use focuses on the physical and psychological issues; to be sure there are many reasons that people, including BPs, should not use substances, or at the very least use them in moderation. The cost of these substances is but a minor reason not to use. However when a person's budget is tight, a six-pack, bottle of wine, or pack of cigarettes can be seen as a luxury. The same can be said for other substances as well. Perhaps you have heard horrific stories of those who spend hundreds each week on his or her addictions; the personal affect can be the same if there is no money for a beer or cigarette, even if it is used in moderation.

Medical and mental health costs

Medical and mental health treatment can be expensive. This is a sad reality, but does not mean that anyone should cut corners when it comes to health. In addition to the cost of treatment for borderline personality disorder, many of those with BPD also experience other medical or mental health issues that require medical intervention and result in additional costs.

It may seem difficult, but ignoring your financial situation very often only makes it worse. In addition, you may make life plans only to be disappointed when there is not enough money to allow you to follow through.

Addressing your finances honestly and actively is a first step to living better. There are no quick fixes, but small changes can produce great results.

Put Together a Budget

Budgets do not have to be complicated nor do you need fancy software or ledgers. It is important to be realistic in your planning and not set yourself up to fail.

• Budgeting 101
• Budget Worksheet
• Guilt-free Budgeting: No Blame, No Shame
• What Makes a Good Budget?

Confront Your Bills

Stop piling the bills up or sticking them unopened in a drawer. Open the bills find out what is due and the terms of payment. Make a realistic plan to address them.

• Making a Plan to Get Out of Debt
• Deciding to Seek Credit Counseling
• Saving Money On Your Credit Cards

Lifestyle Choices

It may be necessary for you to make some lifestyle changes. If substance use or spending habits are keeping you from getting ahead, or even breaking even, then making some changes can impact your finances.

• Excessive Spending
• Can You Afford That "Hot Deal"
• Cutting Your Entertainment Costs
• Quit Smoking Toolbox
• How To Quit Alcohol and Drugs

Communicate With Treatment Providers

If medical and treatment costs are an issue for you, discuss the issue with your providers. Medical costs can often be negotiated down, or lower cost medications can be prescribed.

• Saving On Medications
• Budget Mental Health
• Top 10 Ways To Cut Medical Bills
• Coping With Medical Bills and Debt