BDP is very complex, and often misunderstood which is why this awareness week is so important.
It is estimated that around 1-2% of the adult community live with BPD, that’s over 1 million people in the UK. Of which over 75% are women. But what's really concerning is that 85% of people with BPD will attempt suicide and 10% of people will die by suicide.
It’s suggested that BPD is caused by a mixture of factors – biological, genetic and environmental. A common theme is needs not being met as children.
Most cases of BPD are diagnosed in young adulthood and this is because symptoms are inherently present in many adolescents.
Understanding BPD symptoms:
Some of the symptoms include emotional distress and difficulty relating to others and the world around them. It often involves a lot of emotional highs and lows and can be very distressing for the person and those around them.
There are four primary types of BPD - Quiet, Impulsive, Self-Destructive, Petulant.
Quiet
People with this type of BPD have a fear of abandonment and might take extreme measures to avoid real, or imaginary abandonment. They might keep their feelings inside and tend to blame themselves rather than others.
They may be perfectionists, high functioning and successful, but also feel very detached in large groups and feel lonely or empty a lot of the time. They might engage in self-destructive, self-harming or suicidal behaviours.
Impulsive
People who experience this type of BPD might act impulsively and dangerously, and possibly without any regard for the consequences or others.
They might be energetic, charismatic and engaging, or even elusive and detached. And might engage in behaviours such as bingeing, aggression and self-destructive behaviours.
Self-Destructive
People with self-destructive BPD can experience self-hatred or might be their own worst enemy.
They can experience frequent low mood or depression, self-doubt and a negative self-image. They might engage in behavior that’s harmful to themselves and suicidal thoughts.
Petulant
People who experience this type of BPD suffer with mood often unpredictable mood swings. They might be angry one moment, and sad another. They might also feel unloved or unworthy. They can be manipulative and tend to feel dissatisfied in their relationships.
They might use substances or other dangerous behaviours. Alongside being easily irritated, impatient, stubborn, and can be passive aggressive.
Treatments
There are effective treatments available for BPD which have helped people live meaningful lives without experiencing the symptoms. Most people who do receive treatment, get better over time.
However a lot of people still don’t get diagnosed so they don’t receive the treatment and support that they need which is why this week is important to raise awareness of what BPD is, they symptoms, and how to get help.
There is support out there. If you think this might be relevant to you, it might be helpful to reach out to your GP. Or if you'd like to look into this further, here are some helpful links:
