Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD) / Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

What is EUPD / BPD?

Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD) also known as Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), is a mental health disorder characterised by a pattern of instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and emotions. People with it often experience intense and unstable emotions, have a distorted self-image, and exhibit impulsive behaviours. They may also have a fear of abandonment and engage in self-harming behaviors or suicidal tendencies, difficulties regulating their emotions and may experience frequent mood swings.

The exact cause of EUPD / BPD is not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and neurological factors.

What are the signs of Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder/ Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?

The diagnostic criteria for Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD) / Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), are outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), which is commonly used by mental health professionals for diagnosing mental health conditions.

The following are the main diagnostic criteria for EUPD/BPD:

1. Frantic efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment.
2. A pattern of unstable and intense interpersonal relationships characterised by alternating between extremes of idealisation and devaluation.
3. Identity disturbance: markedly and persistently unstable self-image or sense of self.
4. Impulsivity in at least two areas that are potentially self-damaging (e.g. spending, sex, substance abuse, reckless driving, binge eating).
5. Recurrent suicidal behavior, gestures, or threats, or self-mutilating behavior.
6. Affective instability due to a marked reactivity of mood (e.g. intense episodic dysphoria, irritability, or anxiety usually lasting a few hours and only rarely more than a few days).
7. Chronic feelings of emptiness.
8. Inappropriate, intense anger or difficulty controlling anger (e.g. frequent displays of temper, constant anger, recurrent physical fights).
9. Transient, stress-related paranoid ideation or severe dissociative symptoms.

To receive a diagnosis of EUPD/BPD, an individual must exhibit a pervasive pattern of these symptoms that leads to significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. It’s important to note that only a qualified mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, can make an official diagnosis based on a thorough assessment of the individual’s symptoms and history.

Online therapy for Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder / Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

It’s important to note that individuals with EUPD / BPD can lead fulfilling lives with appropriate treatment and support from mental health professionals, loved ones, and support groups. Early intervention and ongoing care are essential for managing BPD and improving overall quality of life

Treatment for EUPD / BPD typically involves psychotherapy, such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), or schema-focused therapy. Medication may also be used to address specific symptoms or co-occurring conditions.