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Borderline Personality: Most Popular Articles

These articles are the most popular over the last month.
BPD and the Internet
While the internet has become an important vehicle for education and communication for people with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), it may also make life harder for people with BPD. Learn more about how the internet may magnify some symptoms of BPD.
What is BPD?
What is BPD? What are the symptoms? How is it treated? Learn more about the basics of BPD.
Symptoms of BPD
Do you think you or a loved one may have BPD? BPD is associated with instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and emotion, as well as impulsive behaviors. Read more about the symptoms of BPD.
10 Coping Skills for BPD
Want to change the way you respond to intense emotions? For some ideas, use this list of healthy coping skills to get started.
Introduction to DBT
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a psychotherapy that is effective in reducing many of the symptoms of BPD. Learn more about what to expect in DBT and how to find a DBT provider.
How is BPD Diagnosed?
How is borderline personality disorder diagnosed? Learn more about the diagnosis of BPD, the criteria used to determine a diagnosis, and the assessment process.
Coping with BPD
What are coping skills, why are they important, and how can you use healthier ways of coping? Learn new coping skills to help you manage the symptoms of BPD.
Treatments for BPD
There are a number of treatments for borderline personality disorder, including medications, psychotherapy, and intensive treatment programs. Learn more about the various treatments for BPD.
Signs of BPD
Here are some signs that may indicate your friend or loved one has borderline personality disorder (BPD).
What Causes BPD?
While the exact causes of borderline personality disorder are not yet known, research has determined some of the environmental, biological, and genetic factors that are strongly linked to the development of BPD.
Living with BPD
What is it like to live with BPD? How does it impact everyday life? Read the story of one woman living with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Anger In BPD
Anger is often one of the most obvious traits of borderline personality disorder (BPD). Where does the anger come from? What does the anger mean?
Rejection Sensitivity
Rejection Sensitivity is common in those with borderline personality disorder (BPD). It can be difficult for to really understand what this means and how this can impact relationships. What is rejection sensitivity, and how does it relate to borderline personality disorder?
Can BPs Have Normal Life
Is it possible to live a normal life with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
What Is Splitting?
Splitting is a common symptom of borderline personality Disorder (BPD). What is it? Why does this happen?
BPD and Bipolar Disorder
Is Borderline Personality Disorder related to Bipolar Disorder? Learn more about the similarities and differences between BPD and Bipolar Disorder.
Dopamine
Dopamine meaning and definition. How does it figure into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
Divorcing a BP
Living in a relationship with someone who has borderline personality disorder (BPD) can be extremely difficult and conflict-laden. The relationship can take a toll on all those involved, and unfortunately, things can drastically escalate during a divorce. Anger, hostility, accusations, promises, and threats can enter every conversation. What should a person do?
Stop Walking on Eggshells
A book written for the family and friends of those with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). The goal is to help people learn about the disorder, improve their ability to cope with it, and take care of themselves.
Self-Help for BPD
While borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a serious condition that requires treatment by qualified mental health professionals, there are also sources of self-help for people with BPD. Learn more about these self-help strategies that can be used in conjunction with more formal treatment.
BPD Communication Problems
Why am I always in trouble? Why doesn't he understand how I feel? BPD can significantly impact communication in a relationship. Understanding the dynamic is an important step to addressing the problem.
How Common is BPD?
How common is the diagnosis of BPD? It is more common than you might imagine.
IHY-DLM, a Review
A must read for all loved ones of those with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Helping everyone understand BPD, and giving real suggestions to facilitate communication.
Living with BPD
What is it like to live with BPD? How does it impact everyday life? Read the story of one woman living with Borderline Personality Disorder.
Communication Skills
We communicate constantly, and tend to assume that what we are communicating is what we mean to communicate. However, often this is not the case. Learn some skills to avoid the misunderstandings, and learn how to hear what is being said and heard.
Feeling Statements
Feeling statements, otherwise known as "I Statements", are powerful communication tools. Know what they are and how to use them effectively.
Impulsivity and BPD
Are you someone who tends to take action without thinking through the consequences? Do hasty decisions often get you into trouble? Do you often act based on your feelings in the moment rather than on a long-term plan? You may be struggling with impulsive behavior, one of the symptoms of BPD.
Mindfulness Skills & BPD
Mindfulness skills, the skills of awareness of the present moment, can help people with borderline personality disorder reduce emotion dysregulation. Learn more about mindfulness skills and how they may help reduce the symptoms of BPD.
Medications for BPD
Medications have been shown to reduce certain symptoms of borderline personality disorder. Learn more about medications that are commonly used to treat BPD.
Did I just develop BPD?
Recently diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD)? How did you develop it? Is it new, or something that I have had all along? Why am I just being diagnosed now?
Why is it Called "Borderline?"
What does the term "borderline" in Borderline Personality Disorder mean?
Serotonin
Serotonin meaning and definition. How does it figure into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
FAQ: BPD In Children
Can children, or those under 18 years old, have borderline personality disorder? Is my child's personality formed? Should my teenager be diagnosed with BPD?
BPD: Dreaded Diagnosis
Receiving the diagnosis of BPD can feel like an insult, and some clinicians are hesitant to diagnose it. Is the diagnosis really as bad as it sounds?
Who Will Diagnose My Partner
I think my wife has borderline personality disorder, but neither she nor her therapist will take my thoughts seriously. What can I do?
Understand Dissociation
What is dissociation? Is dissociation a disorder? How is dissociation treated? Learn more about dissociation in borderline personality disorder (BPD).
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive-behavioral therapy is one of several models of treatment. Many clinicians say they practice CBT, but what does that mean? Who can benefit from this therapy?
Schema Focused Therapy
Schema focused therapy for borderline personality disorder (BPD) has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of BPD. Learn more about this treatment approach and the latest research support.
Alcoholism and BPD
Learn more about the prevalence of alcoholism in borderline personality disorder (BPD), the reasons that alcoholism and BPD occur together so often, and how to get help for yourself or a loved one with alcoholism and BPD.
Emotional Instability in BPD
People with borderline personality disorder experience more than just your everyday emotional ups and downs. Learn more about emotional instability and the diagnosis of BPD.
SET Communication Tool
Support, empathy, truth (SET) is a communication tool specifically designed for those with borderline personality disorder (BPD).
BPD and Jobs
I have borderline personality disorder; should this affect my job choices? BPD can impact your identity and relationships, but how does this impact job or career choices?
Invalidation and BPD
When discussing the causes of borderline personality disorder (BPD) the term “invalidating environment” is often mentioned. It is important to know what this terms means.
Intensive Outpatient Treatment
Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) provide group psychotherapy services.
Transference Focused Therapy
Transference focused therapy for borderline personality disorder (BPD) is another form of psychotherapy that has recently been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of BPD. Learn more about this treatment approach.
Antidepressants For BPD
Some symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) are treated with antidepressants. What are they? What do they do?
Acetylcholine
Acetylcholine meaning and definition. How does it figure into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
Mindful Driving
Mindfulness exercises can help to reduce problems related to automatic or impulsive behaviors. Try this mindfulness exercise: mindful driving.
Suicide and BPD
Suicidality is an unfortunately common occurrence in borderline personality disorder. Learn more about the link between suicide and BPD, and what you can do to keep yourself or your loved one safe.
Anger As Communication
Communicating feelings can be one of the most difficult things a person does. For the BP, it can seem impossible. Anger may be one of the only ways to communicate difficult feelings.
Taking A Break
Communicating during times of intense feelings can be difficult. Borderline personality disorder (BPD) can result in extremely intense feelings and a need to express them. Sometimes taking a break from the conflict is the first step.
Norepinephrine
Norepinephrine meaning and definition. How does it figure into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
Will I Have BPD Forever?
I have been diagnosed with BPD. Does this mean I will have it for the rest of my life?
Self-Esteem and BPD
Self-esteem refers to how you feel about yourself. Those with borderline personality disorder (BPD) often struggle with poor self-esteem. What does this elusive term mean? Why is self-esteem important? How can you improve your self-esteem?
Is There a Cure for BPD?
Is there a cure for borderline personality disorder (BPD)? Does BPD respond to treatment? Find out about the latest research on treatment and BPD.
Books About BPD
Interested in learning more about BPD? Here are some books to get you started.
How to Find a Therapist
Learn how to find a therapist, including factors you should consider in your search, where to look to find a therapist in your area, and how to interview therapists.
Schema Therapy For BPD
Schema Therapy seems to be effective in the treatment of borderline personality therapy (BPD). Schema therapy is based on the premise that maladaptive beliefs, or schemas, are developed early in life and played out over and over.
Anger As Protection
For many of those with borderline personality disorder, anger protects and defends them from hurt, uncomfortable feelings and additional pain. The anger is like an armor, nothing can get in, but nothing can get out. Understanding how anger works is a step towards change.
Finding a Therapist
Finding the right therapist is one of the most important steps in treating your Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Find out what to look for, and how to find a therapist.
BPD Statistics
Borderline personality disorder is one of the most common personality disorders. How common is it? Who gets it? What are the risk factors?
Will My Children Get BPD?
If you have been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, you may wonder what impact the condition will have on your children. Are they at risk to develop BPD too? Learn more about the impact of BPD on your children and steps you can take to reduce the likelihood that they will also have BPD.
Paranoid Ideation
A definition of paranoid ideation or paranoia.
CBT versus DBT?
Confused about the difference between cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) for borderline personality disorder?
Deliberate Self-Harm
What is deliberate self harm and why does it occur? Learn more about self harming behaviors, why self harm happens, and how self harm is treated.
Unstable Relationships
Intense/unstable relationships are a common issue in borderline personality disorder (BPD), and can be a problem at school or work. Learn what this means and what this looks like.
Dissociation
A definition of dissociation.
Coping - Rejection On the Job
Feelings of rejection can happen anywhere and with just about anyone, work is no exception. Often those with borderline personality disorder (BPD) have a heightened rejection sensitivity, which can result in frequent overwhelming feelings of rejection even on the job.
Coping - In-Laws
Relationships with your partner's family can be difficult at times even in the best circumstances. Borderline personality disorder can make this even more difficult. Understanding how to cope is an important step to maintaining these relationships.
BPD - Work Example
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) can impact relationships, and thus success, at work. There are many possible scenarios, this is an example of one
Antipsychotic Medications
Some symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) are treated with antipsychotic medications. What are they? What do they do? What are the side effects?
Understanding the BP Mother
A book for those whose mothers have borderline personality disorder, it aims to provide insight and guidance. We are affected by our mothers throughout our lives, and children of "borderline mothers" may find that they are still negatively impacted by their mothers' disorder throughout their adulthood.
Child Abuse and BPD
Does child abuse cause borderline personality disorder? Research has shown a link between child maltreatment and BPD, but the causes of BPD are not fully understood.
Personality Disorder
Meaning and definition of personality disorder
How SSRIs Work
SSRIs are commonly prescribed to those with Borderline Personality Disorder. Why they are prescribed and how they work.
Mindful Breathing
A simple mindfulness exercise: mindful breathing
Get Me Out Of Here - A Review
Get Me Out of Here: My Recovery From Borderline Personality Disorder, by Rachel Reiland. A firsthand account of living with and recovering from borderline personality disorder.
Criteria for Therapists
It is important to make an educated decision when choosing a therapist. Having guidelines will help you know what you should be looking for. How will I know the therapist is qualified? Should he really be silent for the most part? Knowing what questions to ask a potential therapist will help you make the best decision for you.
BPD Relapse During Therapy
You have been working hard in therapy, and seem to be making some progress. But it seems that just when things start to be looking up, you relapse. Does all the progress get erased? Why do the relapses occur? Will you ever be non-borderline?
Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychodynamic Therapy meaning and definition. How does it figure into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
What Should I Do in a Crisis?
What should you do if you are at immediate risk of harming yourself or someone else?
The BPD Assessment Process
What should you expect from the BPD assessment process? Learn about each step of the process, from finding a provider to getting a diagnosis.
Temperament
Temperament--What is it? How does it influence a person?
Tips for Better Sleep
Getting quality sleep can reduce mood swings and irritability and improve your quality of life. Learn tips for getting a good night's sleep.
Can BPD Be Prevented?
Is it possible to prevent borderline personality disorder (BPD)? Learn more about the causes of BPD and whether BPD can be prevented.
Self-Injury
It may be referred to as cutting, self-mutilation, self-injury, or amny other things, but it happens, often in secret. Find out what it is, and what it means.
BPD and Axis II
Why have I heard BPD called an "Axis II" disorder? What does "Axis II" mean?
Borderline Personality - Articles
An index of Articles for the Borderline Personality guide site.
Supportive Psychotherapy
Supportive Psychotherapy meaning and definition. How does it figure into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
Cognitive/Perceptual Symptoms
Cognitive/perceptual symptoms of borderline personality disorder (BPD), what are they? How are they treated?
Sometimes I Act Crazy
A review of the book about borderline personality disorder written by the authors of "I Hate You, Don't Leave Me", by the About.com guide to BPD.
BPD Example - College
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) affects every aspect of a persons life, including school success. Often the first symptoms of BPD become apparent during college years. This is an example of how BPD symptoms can manifest during school years.
Lowering Med Costs
For anybody, the cost of maintaining prescription medications can be difficult. Often those with borderline personality disorder find that the monthly drug bill can be too much. What are some things that you can do?
Devaluation
A definition of devaluation.
Temperament 101
Temperament refers to inborn personality traits, and plays a role in the development of personality disorder. It is important to have a general understanding of temperament whether trying to understand yourself, someone you care about, or the development of borderline personality disorder (BPD).
BPD Myths
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a common but often misunderstood mental illness. There are several myths about BPD that increase the stigma and keep those who are affected by the illness the from getting the support and treatment needed. Find out the real story behind this illness.
Idealization
A definition of idealization.
Childhood Abuse By Children
Children are often violent with other children. The violence is often dismissed as "kids will be kids", but should it be overlooked? Children experience the violence from a very different perspective than the adults witnessing the acts. How harmful is the hitting, pushing, and sibling rivalry so common in the lives of children?
Partial Hospitalization
An intermediate level of care. Partial Hospitalization Programs are good for those whoe require structured programming during the day, but do not require overnight care.
Military and BPD
A previous history of mental illness, including a personality disorder, does not preclude a desire to enter the army, navy, or marines. But does a previous history of mental illness mean that a person cannot enter the military?
Psychoeducation
A definition of psychoeducation in borderline personality disorder.
Self-Harm
A definition of self-harm in BPD.
DSM IV
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM IV) meaning and definition.
Support Groups
Supportive care. Support Groups are good for those looking for ongoing supportive communication with those dealing with similar issues.
Inpatient Hospitalization
The highest level of care. Inpatient Hospitalization is required for those unable to keep themselves sefe, due to suicidal thoughts, homicidal thoughts, or psychosis.
Mood Disorders
Your moody, or people keep telling you that you are. Is it Bipolar, or something else? You feel so sad, and seem to be so irritable. Is more than just being down? Defining the cause of your mood disruptions will allow you to better address them and move forward.
Managing Money & BPD
Money management is hard for many people, and those with borderline personality disorder (BPD) often face additional financial challenges. Learning how to budget can help.
Mentalization Based Therapy
Mentalization based therapy for borderline personality disorder (BPD) may be effective in reducing symptoms and improving functioning in patients with BPD. Learn more about this treatment approach and the latest research supporting this approach.
Can I Have Two Therapists?
Sometimes in the course of treatment, a person will want to see an additional therapist to target a specific issue, such as a personality disorder. This can cause more harm than good. Why is it a bad idea?
Neurotransmitter
Neurotransmitter meaning and definition. How does it figure into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
Hypomania
A definition of hypomania or a hypomanic episode
SWOE Workbook
A book written in workbook format for family and friends of those with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). The goal is to help people learn about the disorder, improve their ability to cope with it, and take care of themselves.
Suicidal Ideation (SI)
Suicidal Ideation (SI) meaning and definition. How does it figure into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
BPD and Physical Health
Unfortunately, BPD is associated with some serious physical health conditions, including chronic pain disorders, arthritis, obesity, and diabetes. BPD is also associated with less healthy lifestyle choices. Learn more about the relationship between BPD and physical health, and what you can do to improve your health now.
Abandonment Sensitivity
A definition of abandonment sensitivity.
Bipolar Disorder
A definition of bipolar disorder.
Borderline Personality - GuideReviews
An index of GuideReviews for the Borderline Personality guide site.
Will I Be Sleepy?
Medication is recommended for those with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Will antidepressants or other drugs make it hard to stay awake?
A Bright Red Scream - A Review
Marilee Strong's book, A Bright Red Scream, is a detailed look into self-injury. This is a must read for therapists, self-injurers, and those who care about them.
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Borderline personality disorder (BPD) can affect a person's success in college or other educational training programs -- even the most eager students. There are steps that the BP can take to increase the likelihood of success in education.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
A definition of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Psychotherapy
A definition of psychotherapy.
ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)meaning and definition. How does it figure into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
BP - Shorthand for BPD
The internet is full of shorthand terms. BP is one of them. What does it mean? Why use it?
Delusions
Delusions meaning and definition. How does it figure into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
Insurance Coverage and BPD
Insurance coverage varies in general. How does a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder affect coverage? What can be done?
Paranoia
Paranoia meaning and definition. How does it figure into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
Self-Injury Causes
Cutting, a type of self-harm, is a major public health issue. Although it is a not a new problem, research has helped to shed light on the cause.
Outpatient
Outpatient care is the least restrictive level of care and can be tailored to fit the individual.
Types of Therapists
Find a therapist with the right credentials and expertise. Learn about the different types of therapists and other mental health providers, and the training and expertise of each type of therapist.
Psychosis
Psychosis meaning and definition. How does it figure into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
Hallucination
Hallucination meaning and definition. How does it figure into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
Residential Treatment
An higher level of care. Residential Treatment Programs are good for those who require structured long term programming in a inclusive setting.
Post-Traumatic Stress
Post-Traumatic Stress meaning and definition. How does it figure into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
Hippocampus
Hippocampus meaning and definition. How does it figure into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
Neurosis
Neurosis meaning and definition. How does it figure into Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
DSM
A definition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, or DSM.
Borderline Personality - HowTos
An index of HowTos for the Borderline Personality guide site.
Group Therapy
A therapetic level of care that is often incorporated into other service delivery as well as on its own.
Borderline Personality - FAQs
An index of FAQs for the Borderline Personality guide site.

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