Understanding Borderline Personality Disorder: A Guide for Calgary Boarders
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition that affects around 1.6% of the population. People with BPD experience intense emotions, fear of abandonment, and have difficulty regulating their thoughts and behaviors. In this guide, we will explore BPD in detail, its symptoms, and how it affects individuals living in Calgary.
What is Borderline Personality Disorder?
BPD is a mental illness characterized by extreme mood swings, distorted self-image, and unstable relationships. Individuals with BPD may experience intense emotions, including anger, anxiety, and sadness, which can be difficult to regulate and may lead to impulsive behaviors. They may also struggle with feelings of emptiness and have a fear of abandonment.
Symptoms of BPD
BPD is marked by a pattern of unstable moods, behavior, and relationships. Here are some of the common symptoms:
1. Fear of abandonment: A constant fear of being abandoned or left alone.
2. Intense relationships: Quickly becoming attached to people, but later feeling disappointed and angry.
3. Unstable emotions: Intense and rapid mood swings for no apparent reason.
4. Impulsive behaviors: Behaving recklessly or engaging in risky behaviors without thinking about the consequences.
5. Distorted self-image: Having a distorted view of oneself, feeling helpless, hopeless, or worthless.
6. Self-harm: Engaging in self-harming behaviors such as cutting or burning oneself.
How does it affect individuals living in Calgary?
Living with BPD can be challenging, and individuals living in Calgary may face additional hurdles related to accessing treatment and support. Here are some ways BPD affects Calgary boarders:
1. Stigma: Despite advances in the understanding of mental health, there is still stigma attached to BPD. This stigma can make it difficult for individuals to seek help or receive appropriate treatment.
2. Treatment options: Access to mental health treatment, including specialized BPD treatment, can be limited in Calgary.
3. Social isolation: Living with BPD can be socially isolating, and the cultural expectations of self-reliance and independence may make it difficult for individuals to reach out for support.
4. Employment: Symptoms of BPD, including emotional instability and impulsivity, may make it challenging for individuals to maintain employment.
Conclusion
BPD can be a challenging mental illness to live with, but with appropriate treatment and support, individuals can lead healthy and fulfilling lives. It is vital to recognize and understand the symptoms of BPD and to seek professional help when necessary. Although living with BPD in Calgary may present additional challenges, resources are available to support individuals living with BPD.
References:
1. American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition.
2. Calgary Counselling Centre. (n.d.). Borderline Personality Disorder. Retrieved from https://calgarycounselling.com/mental-health-resources/disorders/borderline-personality-disorder/
3. National Institute of Mental Health. Borderline Personality Disorder. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/borderline-personality-disorder/index.shtml
4. Sashin, J. I., & Weinborn, M. (2019). Borderline personality disorder: a guide for primary care. American Family Physician, 100(2), 82-90.
