Borderline Personality Disorder

Borderline personality disorder is a mental illness that affects how a person manages emotions. It can lead to impulsive behavior, an unstable sense of self, and strained relationships (NIMH).

People with BPD are more likely to also have depression, anxiety, trauma-related problems, or eating disorders, and to have a higher risk of self-harm. The research points to a mix of biology and life experiences.

Emotions can feel very big and change fast. Many people fear being left, are very sensitive to rejection, or feel empty inside. Relationships may swing between very close and very painful, and it can be hard to know who you are or what you value.

• Intense emotions that shift quickly, sometimes within hours
• Strong fear of abandonment, real or imagined
• A pattern of intense, unstable relationships
• Seeing people or situations as all good or all bad
• An unclear or changing sense of self
• Feeling empty
• Impulsive or risky behavior
• Self-harm or thoughts of suicide

Many of these happen to everyone sometimes. A professional looks at whether they are lasting, intense, and affecting daily life.

Effective treatments exist. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is a well-studied treatment, and NIMH supports research on it. DBT has been tested in many trials and teaches skills for handling intense emotions, tolerating distress, and improving relationships. Skills practice, a stable routine, and supportive people all help.

Please reach out if emotions or relationships feel out of control, or if you think about hurting yourself. In the United States, call or text 988 in a crisis. Elsewhere, use your local emergency number or findahelpline.com.

• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Borderline Personality Disorder
• National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Borderline Personality Disorder (publication)