Therapy borderline
What is Borderline personality disorder (BPD/EUPD)?
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), now referred to as Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD), is a personality disorder characterized by persistent instability in emotions, relationships, and self-image.
Individuals with EUPD often experience intense and rapidly shifting emotions, leading to impulsive and sometimes destructive behaviours. They may struggle with regulating their emotions, resulting in intense emotional outbursts and a persistent sense of emptiness. Relationships with others can be turbulent and marked by a deep fear of abandonment.
Diagnosis of EUPD/Borderline
BPD often significantly impacts a person’s daily life and relationships. Common symptoms include mood swings, impulsive behaviour (such as self-harm or suicide attempts), intense and unstable relationships, and a highly fluctuating self-image. Feelings of emptiness and a persistent fear of abandonment are also common. These symptoms can be challenging for both the affected individual and their loved ones.
Rapidly shifting emotions
A person with EUPD may experience extreme emotional reactions that shift quickly from intense happiness to deep sadness or anger. These emotions can be triggered by minor events, making them feel overwhelming and difficult to control. Emotional instability can lead to impulsive and self-destructive behaviours. Self-harm and suicide attempts are not uncommon, and for many individuals with EUPD, these behaviours serve as a way to cope with unbearable emotions.
Borderline and EUPD – we can help
World Psychologists offers support for individuals diagnosed with personality disorders, including BPD/EUPD. There are strategies and tools available to help manage life and relationships more effectively.
Therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder
One of the most common therapy for BPD is Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), a form of Cognitive behavioural Therapy (CBT) that helps individuals manage emotional reactions in a more constructive way. DBT includes both individual therapy and group skills training, where individuals learn to handle difficult emotions and situations without resorting to destructive behaviours.
Another effective method is Mentalization-Based Therapy (MBT), which focuses on improving the individual’s ability to understand their own and others' emotions and thoughts.
Mindfulness and emotional awareness
People with EUPD are often encouraged to practise mindfulness and emotional awareness to better understand and manage their emotional responses. Creating a safe environment and having supportive relationships are also essential for recovery.
Medicines for BPD/EUPD
There is no specific medicine for EUPD, but certain medicines can be prescribed to alleviate symptoms such as depression or anxiety. Any medicine should be taken under the supervision of a psychiatric specialist.
Can people with EUPD have healthy relationships?
Yes, individuals with EUPD can maintain meaningful and functional relationships, but these relationships can be challenging and require effort from both partners. BPD often affects relationships due to intense emotional reactions, fear of abandonment, and impulsive behaviours, which can lead to conflicts and difficulties in maintaining stable connections.
Understanding and communication is the key
The key to successful relationships for someone with EUPD is working on emotional regulation and self-awareness. Through therapy, individuals can develop skills to manage emotional storms and improve communication in relationships.
Support for stable relationships
Support from loved ones is also crucial. It can be helpful for those living with someone who has EUPD to learn more about the condition and seek their own support in managing the challenges that may arise in the relationship. With the right therapy and support, many people with BPD can build stable and healthy relationships over time.
Therapy for Borderline
At World Psychologists, we have experienced psychologists and therapists who specialise in working with individuals diagnosed with BPD/EUPD. We use evidence-based methods and tailor therapy to fit your specific needs. Since no two individuals are alike, therapy is personalised to find the approach that works best for you.
Living with a disorder that has no cure can sometimes feel overwhelming and hopeless, but we know that with the right strategies and therapy, life can become easier, and the symptoms can become less restrictive. This belief drives World Psychologists to continue helping individuals with mental health challenges and personality disorders—we know that we make a difference.
FAQ about BPD/EUPD
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Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) or Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD) is a personality disorder characterized by emotional instability, impulsive behaviour, and an uncertain self-image. Individuals with EUPD often experience intense and rapidly shifting emotions, which can be difficult to manage. This may lead to relationship difficulties and self-destructive behaviours, such as self-harm or suicide attempts.
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Common symptoms include:
Severe mood swings
Fear of abandonment
Difficulties in relationships
Impulsive behaviours (self-harm, risky actions)
Unstable self-image
Feelings of emptiness or meaninglessness
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The primary therapy for BPD/EUPD is psychotherapy, particularly Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). Mentalization-Based Therapy (MBT) is another commonly used method.
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The exact cause of BPD/EUPD is unclear, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental factors. Traumatic childhood experiences, such as abuse or neglect, can increase the risk of developing EUPD.
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Yes! With the right treatment and support, individuals with EUPD can develop better emotional regulation and improve their relationships. DBT has been proven to be effective in reducing self-destructive behaviours and improving emotional stability.