Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition that affects the way people experience and manage emotions, think about themselves and relate to others. It is often misunderstood, but it is a recognised condition that can be managed with support, therapy and practical strategies.
This article covers:
- The main features of BPD
- Other names for borderline personality disorder
- Causes of BPD
- How BPD affects daily life
- Common misconceptions
- Ways to manage symptoms
The main features of BPD
Emotional intensity
One of the main features of borderline personality disorder is intense emotions. People with BPD may feel emotions more strongly and for longer than others. This can include extreme happiness, anger, sadness or anxiety. Because emotions are intense, even small events can feel overwhelming, which can make daily life challenging at times.
Relationship challenges
BPD can make relationships with friends, family and partners feel intense and unpredictable. Trust may be harder to maintain, and emotions can shift quickly. This can lead to patterns of closeness followed by withdrawal, creating highs and lows that are difficult to navigate.
Fear of abandonment
People with borderline personality disorder may experience a strong fear of being abandoned or rejected. This can lead to seeking frequent reassurance or feeling hurt easily when connection feels uncertain. These fears can significantly influence how they respond within relationships.
Self-image and identity
People with BPD often experience uncertainty about who they are. Self-image and sense of identity may shift depending on the situation or the people around them. This can make decision-making, goal setting and long-term planning feel difficult or confusing.
Impulsive or risky behaviours
Impulsive behaviours are another common feature of borderline personality disorder. These can include spending sprees, binge eating, substance use, risky sexual behaviour or sudden decisions. Impulsivity is often a way of coping with intense emotions but can lead to regret or difficulties later.
Find out more about BPD on the Mind website.
Other names for borderline personality disorder
Borderline personality disorder is also known as:
- Emotionally unstable personality disorder (EUPD)
- Emotional intensity disorder (EID)
You may find one name better than another. Feel free to use any of these names to describe your condition. Or you may not choose to label it at all.
Causes of BPD
BPD does not have a single cause. It is usually the result of a combination of factors:
- Some people are more biologically sensitive to emotions, which can increase vulnerability
- Brain regions involved in emotion regulation, impulse control, and self-awareness may function differently
- Trauma, neglect or unstable family environments during childhood can contribute
- Growing up in relationships where emotions were unpredictable can affect coping strategies later in life
It is important to note that having these factors does not guarantee someone will develop BPD, and many people with BPD have supportive, healthy childhoods.
Read more: How common is BPD?
How BPD affects daily life
BPD can impact many areas of daily life, including:
- Fears of abandonment or rejection may make friendships or romantic relationships feel unstable
- Emotional highs and lows can affect focus, motivation and consistency at work or school
- Impulsive spending may occur when emotions feel overwhelming
- Mood swings may make routines, sleep or eating habits inconsistent
- Fear, impulsivity and self-doubt can make even small choices feel difficult
Understanding these patterns helps you find strategies to cope and plan ahead for challenging moments.
Common misconceptions
There are many myths about borderline personality disorder. Some of these include:
- People with BPD are “manipulative” or trying to control others
- BPD is the same as being “crazy” or “unstable”
- People with BPD cannot have healthy relationships
- The condition is untreatable or permanent
- People with BPD are always angry or dramatic
- Borderline personality disorder is caused solely by childhood experiences
- People with BPD are attention-seeking or exaggerating their emotions
None of these are true. Borderline personality disorder is a legitimate mental health condition, and with understanding and support, people with BPD can have fulfilling lives and relationships.
Ways to manage BPD
While there is no single cure for BPD, there are effective ways to manage symptoms and improve quality of life:
- Therapy, such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Medication to manage co-occurring conditions like anxiety or depression
- Daily coping strategies, like grounding, journaling or self-soothing
- Building supportive relationships and safe boundaries
- Educating yourself and others about the condition
Find more about the most common treatments for BPD.
Summary: What is BPD?
BPD is a mental health condition that affects emotions, self-image and relationships. It can lead to intense feelings, impulsive behaviour and fear of abandonment, but it is not a flaw or personal failing.
With therapy, support and practical coping strategies, people with BPD can lead meaningful, fulfilling lives. Understanding and compassion – both for yourself and from others – are key to managing it.
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