Borderline personality disorders are a group of mental health conditions which affect emotions, thoughts and behaviours. They are often referred to using their initials BPD.
What causes borderline personality disorders?
Like many psychological disorders, there is no singular and obvious cause. Possible contributors include: brain anomalies, genetics, childhood trauma and upbringing/environment.
How prevalent are borderline personality disorders?
According to statistics, 2% of the adult UK population have BPDs. However, this only includes those with an official diagnosis, so the real number is likely to be significantly higher.
How is borderline personality disorder diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves a comprehensive interview with a doctor or mental health provider to discuss symptoms, a psychological evaluation, and sometimes a medical examination. The majority of diagnoses are in people over 18.
Mental health training courses in Newport
If you feel that you or your staff would benefit from further learning, there are a number of organisations such as www.tidaltraining.co.uk/mental-health-training-courses/newport that offer mental health training courses Newport and the surrounding area.
Types of BPD
There are four different, widely accepted types of borderline personality disorder: impulsive, discouraged, self-destructive and petulant. It is quite possible to have more than one of these at the same time, or at different times.
Impulsive BPD
This type of BPD is characterised by impulsive/reckless behaviour. This may include binge eating, overspending, drinking excessively, gambling, taking drugs, getting into fights or driving under the influence.
Discouraged BPD
This type is also known as quiet BPD. People with this condition are afraid of abandonment. Signs of discouraged BPD include codependency, clinginess/neediness, anger and emotional mood swings. Discouraged types can be very successful and high-functioning but may seek constant approval or engage in self-harm or suicidal behaviour.
Self-destructive BPD
Those with this type of BPD often feel bitter and struggle with self-hatred. Classic behaviours include substance abuse, risky adrenaline-seeking activities and self-harm.
Petulant BPD
People with this type often feel unworthy/unloved. People with petulant BPD can be manipulative, irritable, stubborn and passive-aggressive. They may experience severe mood swings.
