The disorder I chose for this assignment is Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), this
disorder particularly stuck out to me as it is one of the diagnoses that often is misunderstood both
in the public eye and even within mental health circles. At its core, it’s a disorder marked by
intense emotions, unstable relationships, a shaky sense of self, and a tendency towards impulsive
behavior. People with BPD can feel things so strongly that even small conflicts or fears of
abandonment feel overwhelming. According to the textbook readings from this week, Chapter
13: Psychological Disorders states that it is not uncommon for a person with BPD to swing
quickly between feeling close to someone and suddenly fearing rejection or betrayal. That
constant push and pull can make relationships exhausting for both sides. The textbook readings
define BPD as “This personality disorder is defined by a chronic pattern of instability. This
instability manifests itself in interpersonal relationships, mood, self-image, and behavior that can
interfere with social functioning or work. It may also cause grave emotional distress.” This
psychological disorder is diagnosed through clinical evaluation using the criteria in the DSM-5.
When it comes to treatment, one therapy that really stands out as the most helpful for
treating BPD is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). It was actually created with BPD in mind
and focuses on teaching skills that many of us with the disorder desperately need, such as
emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. What
makes DBT effective isn’t just the coping strategies themselves but the way it balances
acceptance with change. For example, it acknowledges that our feelings are real and valid, but it
also helps us challenge the destructive ways we sometimes act on those feelings. The Psychology
Today article titled “How Important is a Psychiatric Diagnosis?” points out that a diagnosis,
when done thoughtfully, helps guide people toward treatments that work, and DBT is one of
those approaches that has a clear track record for reducing self-destructive behaviors and
improving quality of life.
As someone who provides support, a licensed therapist trained in DBT is often the go-to.
Some psychiatrists also incorporate DBT skills alongside medication management, especially if
there are co-occurring issues like depression or anxiety. Having someone who not only
understands the clinical side but also can sit with the intensity of BPD emotions without
judgement makes a huge difference. The Verywell Mind article from this week notes that
diagnostic tools such as DSM are sometimes controversial, but when used as a guide instead of a
label, they can be very useful in helping practitioners tailor treatment plans that fit the person.
That is truly what it comes down to: finding professionals who see beyond the stigma and are
willing to walk through the messy parts of healing with you.
References:
General Psychology: An Introduction (Chapter 13 pages 379-464)
How Important is a Psychiatric Diagnosis?
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Diagnostic Statistical Manual
disorder particularly stuck out to me as it is one of the diagnoses that often is misunderstood both
in the public eye and even within mental health circles. At its core, it’s a disorder marked by
intense emotions, unstable relationships, a shaky sense of self, and a tendency towards impulsive
behavior. People with BPD can feel things so strongly that even small conflicts or fears of
abandonment feel overwhelming. According to the textbook readings from this week, Chapter
13: Psychological Disorders states that it is not uncommon for a person with BPD to swing
quickly between feeling close to someone and suddenly fearing rejection or betrayal. That
constant push and pull can make relationships exhausting for both sides. The textbook readings
define BPD as “This personality disorder is defined by a chronic pattern of instability. This
instability manifests itself in interpersonal relationships, mood, self-image, and behavior that can
interfere with social functioning or work. It may also cause grave emotional distress.” This
psychological disorder is diagnosed through clinical evaluation using the criteria in the DSM-5.
When it comes to treatment, one therapy that really stands out as the most helpful for
treating BPD is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). It was actually created with BPD in mind
and focuses on teaching skills that many of us with the disorder desperately need, such as
emotional regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. What
makes DBT effective isn’t just the coping strategies themselves but the way it balances
acceptance with change. For example, it acknowledges that our feelings are real and valid, but it
also helps us challenge the destructive ways we sometimes act on those feelings. The Psychology
Today article titled “How Important is a Psychiatric Diagnosis?” points out that a diagnosis,
when done thoughtfully, helps guide people toward treatments that work, and DBT is one of
those approaches that has a clear track record for reducing self-destructive behaviors and
improving quality of life.
As someone who provides support, a licensed therapist trained in DBT is often the go-to.
Some psychiatrists also incorporate DBT skills alongside medication management, especially if
there are co-occurring issues like depression or anxiety. Having someone who not only
understands the clinical side but also can sit with the intensity of BPD emotions without
judgement makes a huge difference. The Verywell Mind article from this week notes that
diagnostic tools such as DSM are sometimes controversial, but when used as a guide instead of a
label, they can be very useful in helping practitioners tailor treatment plans that fit the person.
That is truly what it comes down to: finding professionals who see beyond the stigma and are
willing to walk through the messy parts of healing with you.
References:
General Psychology: An Introduction (Chapter 13 pages 379-464)
How Important is a Psychiatric Diagnosis?
Advantages and Disadvantages of the Diagnostic Statistical Manual
