Borderline Personality Disorder: Symptoms and Treatment

Need help finding treatment & support? Learn more from SunCloud Health, a leading outpatient facility serving Chicago and suburbs.

Everyday life has its ups and downs. Borderline personality disorder (or BPD) is marked by rapid shifts in mood, self-image and behavior.

One minute we may feel happy and secure, then something may happen that makes us feel less sure of ourselves. Dealing with shifts in mood and confidence is an ongoing challenge – but for some, this everyday task seems especially tough. This may be one sign of a mental condition known as borderline personality disorder. IMPORTANT: Symptoms like these can cause great pain. If you are having thoughts of suicide, call 911 now or go to the nearest emergency room.

VIDEO: MOOD DISORDERS ARE OFTEN MANIFESTATIONS OF TRAUMA

[hpcenter] Dr. Marcia Nickow, PSY.D., CADC, CGP, Clinical Director and Organizational Advisor at SunCloud Health on how mood disorders are often manifestations of trauma.[/hpcenter] [narrowvid][/narrowvid] [colorsection bgcolor=”graybg”] [su_accordion class=””] [su_spoiler title=”

WHAT IS BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER?

” open=”no” style=”default” icon=”plus” anchor=”” class=””]People who suffer from this disorder have intense periods of anger, anxiety and depression that can last a few hours or a few days. They may make choices on the spur of the moment that can cause big problems later. These tendencies often make for stormy relationships with family, friends, neighbors and work colleagues. [clearfixspace] [center][boxcta]

DON’T STRUGGLE ALONE

Find compassionate, effective help now (866) 729-1012 Or click here to send a secure message.[/boxcta][/center][/su_spoiler] [su_spoiler title=”

MORE ABOUT THE SYMPTOMS OF BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER

” open=”no” style=”default” icon=”plus” anchor=”” class=””]People who suffer from borderline personality disorder (BPD) tend to feel unsure of themselves and their role in the world. Their interests and values can shift quickly, often leading to spur-of-the-moment actions and decisions that create even more issues. Another sign of borderline personality disorder is the tendency to see things in black-and-white terms, viewing something as “all good” or “all bad.” If you are suffering from BPD, your opinion of others may change quickly. Someone who seems like a friend one day may appear to be an enemy tomorrow. Here are other signs that you or someone you care about may be suffering from BPD. — You work hard to avoid real or imagined abandonment. People with borderline personality disorder may get close to others very quickly. They may also cut off communication with someone because they get the sense the person may be preparing to abandon them. — You have intense, unstable relationships with family, friends, and loved ones that tend to swing between extreme closeness to extreme dislike or anger. — Your self-image shifts frequently, marked by periods of intense self-love that later turn into self-criticism or even self-harm. — You practice self-harming behaviors such as cutting. — You have thoughts of suicide, including suicidal behaviors or threats. — Your moods are intense and highly changeable, with each episode lasting from a few hours to a few days. — You have chronic feelings of emptiness.You feel inappropriate, intense anger that is difficult to control. — You find it hard to trust others and feel suspicious of their intentions. — You feel cut off from yourself. This may mean having the sensation that you are actually living outside your own body, or the feeling that nothing is real. — You make reckless choices leading to risky behaviors such as spending sprees, unsafe sex, substance use, reckless driving, and binge eating. Keep in mind that this is a general list of symptoms. You may be dealing with only a few of these issues, while someone else many experience more of the symptoms on the list. BPD symptoms can be triggered by seemingly ordinary events. For example, you may become angry and stressed when you’re far away from loved ones, even for a brief business trip. A simple change in plans can trigger an episode of anger and blame that leads to a fiery argument. IMPORTANT: BPD symptoms can cause feelings of pain and despair. If you are having thoughts of suicide, call 911 now or go to the nearest emergency room. [clearfixspace] [center][boxcta]

FIND COMPASSIONATE CARE

For yourself of someone you care about (866) 729-1012 Or click here to send a secure message.[/boxcta][/center][/su_spoiler] [su_spoiler title=”

IS BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER THE SAME AS BIPOLAR DISORDER?

” open=”no” style=”default” icon=”plus” anchor=”” class=””]You may have heard that BPD is similar to bipolar disorder, a condition that causes periods of elevated mood (mania) and depression. In fact, BPD and bipolar disorder so share some common symptoms. But it’s important to know that they are two different disorders. Borderline personality disorder tends to cause abrupt, moment-to-moment changes in mood, self-image, relationships and behavior. In contrast, bipolar disorder involves distinct periods of mania or depression that usually last for weeks or months. With bipolar disorder, mood shifts develop a bit more gradually and tend to stay longer. Mental health conditions like bipolar disorder and BPD are very complex. No two people experience these conditions in exactly the same way. Please don’t feel discouraged if you’re unsure which symptoms might apply to you or your loved one. We are ready to help you learn more and find the help you need. [clearfixspace] [center][boxcta]

GET STARTED TODAY

Find effective help now (866) 729-1012 Or click here to send a secure message.[/boxcta][/center][/su_spoiler] [su_spoiler title=”

WHAT CAUSES BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER?

” open=”no” style=”default” icon=”plus” anchor=”” class=””]The exact cause of BPD is not yet clear. Studies show that genetics, brain structure and function, and environmental, cultural, and social factors may play a role. Here are a few of the things we know about the possible causes of this disorder. Family history. People who have a close family member who also has BPD may be at higher risk of developing the disorder. Brain factors. Research shows that people with borderline personality disorder often have brain-based differences. Areas of the brain that help to control impulses and regulate emotions may be affected. However, it isn’t clear whether these differences cause the disorder or are actually created by the disorder. Environmental and social factors. Many people with borderline personality disorder have experienced trauma in childhood. This may include abuse, abandonment, poverty, violence or hunger. BPD sufferers may have lived in unstable homes where adults did not deliver the love and nurturing they needed. Keep in mind that not everyone with a family history of BPD, childhood trauma or brain differences will develop the disorder. Humans are complex beings – and when we’re suffering, the causes are as unique as we are. [clearfixspace] [center][boxcta]

FIND COMPASSIONATE CARE

For yourself of someone you care about (866) 729-1012 Or click here to send a secure message.[/boxcta][/center][/su_spoiler] [su_spoiler title=”

HOW IS BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER TREATED?

” open=”no” style=”default” icon=”plus” anchor=”” class=””]You may have heard that borderline personality disorder is difficult to treat. Fortunately, there are newer treatments that are helping people with BPD live more stable, satisfying lives. The important thing to know is that BPD is a serious diagnosis that does not go away on its own. You or your loved one will need to work with knowledgeable, caring professionals who understand how BPD works and will create a treatment plan based on the unique pattern of your life history and symptoms.

VIDEO: WHY SUNCLOUD HEALTH?

Hear from Kim Dennis, MD, CEDS, on why SunCloud Health can be the right treatment program for you or a loved one. [center][/center] Psychotherapy. Most people suffering from borderline personality disorder will enter talk therapy with a professional who will provide one-on-one treatment or group treatment. Therapist-led group sessions help people with BPD learn to work well with others and express their feelings more effectively. Since lack of trust is a symptom of BPD, it can be hard for people with this disorder to rely on their therapists. The SunCloud Health team will provide the specialized support you need to create a comfortable and trusting bond with your therapist. Specific forms of psychotherapy used to treat BPD may include: Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). This type of therapy uses concepts of mindfulness and acceptance to help you tune in to your own feelings. DBT also teaches specific skills, such as ways to control intense emotions, reduce harmful behaviors and improve relationships. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This form of therapy can help to change core beliefs and behaviors that stem from an inaccurate picture you may have of yourself or others. CBT also focuses on specific difficulties you have in relating to other people. It can ease mood and anxiety symptoms and reduce self-harming behaviors. As you learn about treatment, please keep in mind that BPD is a serious diagnosis that does not go away on its own. You or your loved one will need to work with knowledgeable, caring professionals who understand how BPD works and will create a treatment plan based on the unique pattern of your life history and symptoms. [clearfixspace] [center][boxcta]

REACH OUT NOW

For yourself of someone you care about (866) 729-1012 Or click here to send a secure message.[/boxcta][/center][/su_spoiler] [su_spoiler title=”

WHAT IF BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER ISN’T THE ONLY ISSUE?

” open=”no” style=”default” icon=”plus” anchor=”” class=””]Many people struggle with more than one mental health condition at a time. You may have heard that it is possible to have a dual diagnosis or a co-occurring disorder. In fact, people with BPD often face other difficulties such as self-harm, eating disorders, addiction and other issues that threaten their overall health. At SunCloud Health, we specialize in the treatment of co-occurring disorders. Our expert team has helped hundreds of people in the Chicago area who started their journey with symptoms of one diagnosis, only to find they were dealing with more than one issue. We know from experience that, with the right support, you can learn to manage your symptoms and create a life that is calmer and more fulfilling.

VIDEO: WE DO NOT IGNORE THE CO-OCCURRING AT SUNCLOUD HEALTH

Dr. Kim Dennis, MD, CEDS, explains how SunCloud Health treats co-occurring disorders. [center][/center] [clearfixspace] [center][boxcta]

GET STARTED TODAY

Find effective help now (866) 729-1012 Or click here to send a secure message.[/boxcta][/center][/su_spoiler] [su_spoiler title=”

THE GOOD NEWS: YOU’RE ALREADY ON YOUR WAY

” open=”no” style=”default” icon=”plus” anchor=”” class=””]Here are some things that will ease your mind, even before you begin treatment. You don’t have to blame yourself. We know that borderline personality disorder often runs in families. And even though you may feel embarrassed about it, remember that BPD isn’t a character defect you can correct by trying harder. It’s an organic condition that requires professional treatment, just like diabetes or heart disease. You’ve already taken the first step. By searching for information on our website, you’ve shown that you are ready to seek help, or support a friend or family member. This is the crucial first step in getting well. We will make the journey easier for you. The SunCloud staff will use evidence-based techniques and therapies to help you and your family. We will stay with you, providing the education and support you need to manage your symptoms and remain healthy over the long term. We are here to answer your questions, so get in touch with us today. [clearfixspace] [center][boxcta]

DON’T STRUGGLE ALONE

Find compassionate, effective help now (866) 729-1012 Or click here to send a secure message.[/boxcta][/center][/su_spoiler]

VIDEO: IN AND OUT OF TREATMENT SEVERAL TIMES WITH LITTLE SUCCESS?

Emily Long discusses how patients benefit from an integrated treatment approach and how that contributes to a more effective treatment experience at SunCloud Health. [center][/center] [clearfixspace] [su_spoiler title=”

LIFE AFTER BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER TREATMENT?

” open=”no” style=”default” icon=”plus” anchor=”” class=””]As an outpatient and residential treatment center, SunCloud Health is in an ideal position to support you for as long as you agree our services are useful to you. With multiple levels of outpatient care, you may decide to stay connected through one of our aftercare outpatient groups – or you may want to continue seeing one of our individual therapists.  We are here to provide continuous, caring support for your recovery journey. Though we understand fully that you don’t want to spend your life in treatment, we also know from experience that a lifetime commitment to wellness is the foundation of your well-being over the long term. We will work with you to maintain a healthy outlook, which means achieving balance, honesty, and health — physical, emotional and spiritual. Our goal is to create a care plan that you can take with you forever, wherever you may go.[/su_spoiler]

VIDEO: IS THERE HOPE FOR MY RECOVERY?

Dr. Marcia Nickow, Psy.D., CADC, CGP shares her thoughts on hope for recovery at SunCloud Health. [center][/center] [clearfixspace]
Living with depression and anxiety my entire life has been plain and simply just terrible. I have been on a merry go round of medication for decades and I have been diagnosed with just about every “mood disorder” out there. Often, I would turn to some form of self-destructive behavior as a way to deal with my pain and despair, and until recently I felt like this was just the way it was going to be forever. When I came to see Dr. Kim, I felt like I had met the “Dr. House” of Psychiatry (great TV series!). She actually spent countless hours in therapy with me and my family properly diagnosing me for the first time in my life and getting my medication finally on the right track. She is anything but a typical psychiatrist who spends maybe 10 minutes with patients and then runs out. The experience at SunCloud helped me see that, with ongoing support, I can actually live a normal and stable life. ~ SCH patient
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Get Help Now

Thinking about seeking help or know someone who does? Click below to have one of our professional team members contact you. [one_third]Schedule a One-on-One Consultation[/one_third][one_third]Learn More About SunCloud Health[/one_third][one_third_last]Get information on Costs and Insurance[/one_third_last][/ctabar][nogap]

Everyday Life Has Its Ups and Downs. Borderline Personality Disorder (Or BPD) Is Marked by Rapid Shifts in Mood, Self-Image and Behavior.

One minute we may feel happy and secure, then something may happen that makes us feel less sure of ourselves. Dealing with shifts in mood and confidence is an ongoing challenge – but for some, this everyday task seems especially tough. This may be one sign of a mental condition known as borderline personality disorder.

IMPORTANT: Symptoms like these can cause great pain. If you are having thoughts of suicide, call 911 now or go to the nearest emergency room.

Video: Mood Disorders Are Often Manifestations of Trauma

Dr. Marcia Nickow, PSY.D., CADC, CGP, Clinical Director and Organizational Advisor at SunCloud Health on how mood disorders are often manifestations of trauma.

What Is Borderline Personality Disorder?

People who suffer from this disorder have intense periods of anger, anxiety and depression that can last a few hours or a few days. They may make choices on the spur of the moment that can cause big problems later. These tendencies often make for stormy relationships with family, friends, neighbors and work colleagues.

You are not alone. Call now.

Find compassionate, effective help now.

More About the Symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder

People who suffer from borderline personality disorder (BPD) tend to feel unsure of themselves and their role in the world. Their interests and values can shift quickly, often leading to spur-of-the-moment actions and decisions that create even more issues.

Another sign of borderline personality disorder is the tendency to see things in black-and-white terms, viewing something as “all good” or “all bad.” If you are suffering from BPD, your opinion of others may change quickly. Someone who seems like a friend one day may appear to be an enemy tomorrow.

Here are other signs that you or someone you care about may be suffering from BPD.

  • You work hard to avoid real or imagined abandonment. People with borderline personality disorder may get close to others very quickly. They may also cut off communication with someone because they get the sense the person may be preparing to abandon them.
  • You have intense, unstable relationships with family, friends, and loved ones that tend to swing between extreme closeness to extreme dislike or anger.
  • Your self-image shifts frequently, marked by periods of intense self-love that later turn into self-criticism or even self-harm.
  • You practice self-harming behaviors such as cutting.
  • You have thoughts of suicide, including suicidal behaviors or threats.
  • Your moods are intense and highly changeable, with each episode lasting from a few hours to a few days.
  • You have chronic feelings of emptiness.
  • You feel inappropriate, intense anger that is difficult to control.
  • You find it hard to trust others and feel suspicious of their intentions.
  • You feel cut off from yourself. This may mean having the sensation that you are actually living outside your own body, or the feeling that nothing is real.
  • You make reckless choices leading to risky behaviors such as spending sprees, unsafe sex, substance use, reckless driving, and binge eating.

Keep in mind that this is a general list of symptoms. You may be dealing with only a few of these issues, while someone else many experience more of the symptoms on the list.

BPD symptoms can be triggered by seemingly ordinary events. For example, you may become angry and stressed when you’re far away from loved ones, even for a brief business trip. A simple change in plans can trigger an episode of anger and blame that leads to a fiery argument.

Sunrise over a field

IMPORTANT: BPD symptoms can cause feelings of pain and despair. If you are having thoughts of suicide, call 911 now or go to the nearest emergency room.

Find stability and healing. Start today.

For yourself of someone you care about.

Is Borderline Personality Disorder the Same as Bipolar Disorder?

You may have heard that BPD is similar to bipolar disorder, a condition that causes periods of elevated mood (mania) and depression. In fact, BPD and bipolar disorder so share some common symptoms. But it’s important to know that they are two different disorders.

Borderline personality disorder tends to cause abrupt, moment-to-moment changes in mood, self-image, relationships and behavior. In contrast, bipolar disorder involves distinct periods of mania or depression that usually last for weeks or months. With bipolar disorder, mood shifts develop a bit more gradually and tend to stay longer.

Mental health conditions like bipolar disorder and BPD are very complex. No two people experience these conditions in exactly the same way.

Please don’t feel discouraged if you’re unsure which symptoms might apply to you or your loved one. We are ready to help you learn more and find the help you need.

We’re here to guide you. Reach out now.

Find effective help now.

What Causes Borderline Personality Disorder?

The exact cause of BPD is not yet clear. Studies show that genetics, brain structure and function, and environmental, cultural, and social factors may play a role. Here are a few of the things we know about the possible causes of this disorder.

Family history. People who have a close family member who also has BPD may be at higher risk of developing the disorder.

Brain factors. Research shows that people with borderline personality disorder often have brain-based differences. Areas of the brain that help to control impulses and regulate emotions may be affected. However, it isn’t clear whether these differences cause the disorder or are actually created by the disorder.

Environmental and social factors. Many people with borderline personality disorder have experienced trauma in childhood. This may include abuse, abandonment, poverty, violence or hunger. BPD sufferers may have lived in unstable homes where adults did not deliver the love and nurturing they needed.

Keep in mind that not everyone with a family history of BPD, childhood trauma or brain differences will develop the disorder. Humans are complex beings – and when we’re suffering, the causes are as unique as we are.

Let us help you find balance. Contact us today.

For yourself of someone you care about.

How Is Borderline Personality Disorder Treated?

You may have heard that borderline personality disorder is difficult to treat. Fortunately, there are newer treatments that are helping people with BPD live more stable, satisfying lives.

The important thing to know is that BPD is a serious diagnosis that does not go away on its own. You or your loved one will need to work with knowledgeable, caring professionals who understand how BPD works and will create a treatment plan based on the unique pattern of your life history and symptoms.

Video: Why SunCloud Health?

Hear from Kim Dennis, MD, CEDS, on why SunCloud Health can be the right treatment program for you or a loved one.

Psychotherapy:

 Most people suffering from borderline personality disorder will enter talk therapy with a professional who will provide one-on-one treatment or group treatment. Therapist-led group sessions help people with BPD learn to work well with others and express their feelings more effectively.

Since lack of trust is a symptom of BPD, it can be hard for people with this disorder to rely on their therapists. The SunCloud Health team will provide the specialized support you need to create a comfortable and trusting bond with your therapist.

Specific forms of psychotherapy used to treat BPD may include:

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). This type of therapy uses concepts of mindfulness and acceptance to help you tune in to your own feelings. DBT also teaches specific skills, such as ways to control intense emotions, reduce harmful behaviors and improve relationships.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This form of therapy can help to change core beliefs and behaviors that stem from an inaccurate picture you may have of yourself or others. CBT also focuses on specific difficulties you have in relating to other people. It can ease mood and anxiety symptoms and reduce self-harming behaviors.

As you learn about treatment, please keep in mind that BPD is a serious diagnosis that does not go away on its own. You or your loved one will need to work with knowledgeable, caring professionals who understand how BPD works and will create a treatment plan based on the unique pattern of your life history and symptoms.

Hope and healing are possible. Begin today.

For yourself of someone you care about.

What If Borderline Personality Disorder Isn’t the Only Issue?

Many people struggle with more than one mental health condition at a time. You may have heard that it is possible to have a dual diagnosis or a co-occurring disorder. In fact, people with BPD often face other difficulties such as self-harm, eating disorders, addiction and other issues that threaten their overall health.

At SunCloud Health, we specialize in the treatment of co-occurring disorders. Our expert team has helped hundreds of people in the Chicago area who started their journey with symptoms of one diagnosis, only to find they were dealing with more than one issue. We know from experience that, with the right support, you can learn to manage your symptoms and create a life that is calmer and more fulfilling.

Video: We Do Not Ignore the Co-Occurring at SunCloud Health

Dr. Kim Dennis, MD, CEDS, explains how SunCloud Health treats co-occurring disorders.

Get Started Today.

Find effective help now.

The Good News:You’re Already on Your Way

Here are some things that will ease your mind, even before you begin treatment.

You don’t have to blame yourself. We know that borderline personality disorder often runs in families. And even though you may feel embarrassed about it, remember that BPD isn’t a character defect you can correct by trying harder. It’s an organic condition that requires professional treatment, just like diabetes or heart disease.

You’ve already taken the first step. By searching for information on our website, you’ve shown that you are ready to seek help, or support a friend or family member. This is the crucial first step in getting well.

We will make the journey easier for you. The SunCloud staff will use evidence-based techniques and therapies to help you and your family. We will stay with you, providing the education and support you need to manage your symptoms and remain healthy over the long term. We are here to answer your questions, so get in touch with us today.

Don’t struggle alone.

Find compassionate, effective help now.

Video: In And Out of Treatment Several Times with Little Success?

Emily Long discusses how patients benefit from an integrated treatment approach and how that contributes to a more effective treatment experience at SunCloud Health.

We’re here to guide you. Reach out now.

Life After Borderline Personality Disorder Treatment?

As an outpatient and residential treatment center, SunCloud Health is in an ideal position to support you for as long as you agree our services are useful to you. With multiple levels of outpatient care, you may decide to stay connected through one of our aftercare outpatient groups – or you may want to continue seeing one of our individual therapists.  We are here to provide continuous, caring support for your recovery journey.

Though we understand fully that you don’t want to spend your life in treatment, we also know from experience that a lifetime commitment to wellness is the foundation of your well-being over the long term. We will work with you to maintain a healthy outlook, which means achieving balance, honesty, and health — physical, emotional and spiritual. Our goal is to create a care plan that you can take with you forever, wherever you may go.

Get Started Today.

Find effective help now.

Video: Is There Hope for My Recovery?

Dr. Marcia Nickow, Psy.D., CADC, CGP shares her thoughts on hope for recovery at SunCloud Health.

Hope and Healing are Possible. Begin Today.

Living with depression and anxiety my entire life has been plain and simply just terrible. I have been on a merry go round of medication for decades and I have been diagnosed with just about every “mood disorder” out there. Often, I would turn to some form of self-destructive behavior as a way to deal with my pain and despair, and until recently I felt like this was just the way it was going to be forever. When I came to see Dr. Kim, I felt like I had met the “Dr. House” of Psychiatry (great TV series!). She actually spent countless hours in therapy with me and my family properly diagnosing me for the first time in my life and getting my medication finally on the right track. She is anything but a typical psychiatrist who spends maybe 10 minutes with patients and then runs out. The experience at SunCloud helped me see that, with ongoing support, I can actually live a normal and stable life.

Get Help Now

Thinking about seeking help or know someone who does? Click below to have one of our professional team members contact you.

Explaining SunCloud’s Integrated ModelWhy is an integrated treatment model essential to successfully treating patients?

Dr. Kim Dennis, Co-Founder and Medical Director at SunCloud Health, discusses the vital role the integrated model (that she is pioneering at SunCloud Health) plays in the success of treating patients with co-occurring disorders and underlying trauma. How does SunCloud create an authentic culture of patient support?