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BPD is a mental health condition where people might experience:
Emotional pain is a big problem for people with BPD, often stemming from past experiences and impacting their emotional well being, relationships and overall life.
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex mental health condition where relationships are unstable, emotions are unstable and impulsive. As a personality disorder BPD affects a person’s thoughts, feelings and behaviour often leading to significant distress or impairment in many areas of life including social and occupational functioning. Unfortunately BPD is often misunderstood and stigmatised which can stop people from seeking help. But with the right treatment and support people with BPD can learn to manage their symptoms and improve their overall well being. Understanding BPD is the first step to managing and recovering.
The causes of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) are not fully understood but research suggests it is a combination of genetic, environmental and social factors. People with a family history of personality disorders or mental health issues may be more likely to develop BPD. Traumatic experiences such as childhood abuse or neglect can also contribute to the development of this condition. Symptoms of BPD can vary from person to person but often include emotional instability, feelings of worthlessness and impulsivity. People with BPD have intense but unstable relationships, fear of abandonment and difficulty with interpersonal relationships. Intense anger, mood swings and difficulty with emotional regulation are also common. In some cases this can lead to self harm or suicidal thoughts, so early intervention and comprehensive treatment is key.
One of the most effective and evidence based treatments for BPD is Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). DBT teaches a wide range of skills to understand and manage emotions, distress and relationships. It’s very practical and has been shown to be very effective in stabilising people’s mental health. A DBT approach teaches skills in the following areas:
Other therapies have also been shown to be effective in treating BPD including Mentalisation Based Therapy (MBT), Schema Therapy, and trauma interventions for some of the underlying factors of BPD.
Working with a Melbourne psychologist is a key step in managing BPD symptoms and improving overall well being. A clinical psychologist provides a safe and confidential space for you to explore your concerns and work towards positive change. Through one on one counselling, group therapy and skills training you can learn to manage your emotions, improve your relationships and develop healthier coping mechanisms. A clinical psychologist’s expertise in treating BPD means that each treatment plan is tailored to you, so you have a supportive environment to grow and recover.
Accurate assessment and diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is key to developing a treatment plan. This involves a series of screening tests and evaluations including questionnaires, interviews and other assessments. Clinical psychologists may use standardised tools such as the Borderline Symptom List (BSL-23), the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 Personality Disorders (SCID-5-PD) or the Personality Assessment Inventory (PAI) to assess BPD symptoms. A full assessment allows for a thorough understanding of your mental health issues so the diagnosis is accurate and the treatment plan is tailored to your needs.
Emotional pain is a big problem for people with BPD, often stemming from past experiences and impacting their emotional well being, relationships and overall life.
If you liked this page you may also like our blog post on shame – shame is often a big part of BPD.
At Cova Psychology we have a special interest in BPD and have several Melbourne psychologists and trauma therapists who work in this area. If you or a loved one have a BPD diagnosis or are experiencing some of the above symptoms, therapy with a therapist who has experience in treating BPD can help. To book an appointment with a Cova psychologist contact our friendly reception team at:
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Let’s discuss your needs and match you with the right Melbourne psychologist.
Let’s discuss your needs and match you with the right Melbourne psychologist
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Cova Psychology acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land where our Melbourne CBD practice is located—the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong/Boon Wurrung peoples of the Kulin Nation. We pay respect to their Elders, past and present, as well as the Elders of other Aboriginal communities in Melbourne and beyond.
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We would like to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which the practice is located. We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present, and the Aboriginal Elders of other communities who may be here today.
