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What is borderline personality disorder & the 4 types.
How is borderline personality disorder diagnosed?
A licensed mental health professional—such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, or clinical social worker—can diagnose borderline personality disorder based on a thorough evaluation of a person’s symptoms, experiences, and family medical history. A careful and thorough medical exam can help rule out other possible causes of symptoms.
Borderline personality disorder is usually diagnosed in late adolescence or early adulthood. Occasionally, people younger than age 18 may be diagnosed with borderline personality disorder if their symptoms are significant and last at least 1 year.
What other illnesses can co-occur with borderline personality disorder?
Borderline personality disorder often occurs with other mental illnesses, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These co-occurring disorders can make it harder to correctly diagnose and treat borderline personality disorder, especially when the disorders have overlapping symptoms. For example, a person with borderline personality disorder also may be more likely to experience symptoms of major depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, substance use disorder, or eating disorders.
How is borderline personality disorder treated?
With evidence-based treatment, many people with borderline personality disorder experience fewer and less severe symptoms, improved functioning, and better quality of life. It is important for people with borderline personality disorder to receive treatment from a licensed mental health professional.
It can take time for symptoms to improve after treatment begins. It is important for people with borderline personality disorder and their loved ones to be patient, stick with the treatment plan, and seek support during treatment.
Some people with borderline personality disorder may need intensive, often inpatient, care to manage severe symptoms, while others may be able to manage their symptoms with outpatient care.
Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy (sometimes called talk therapy) is the main treatment for people with borderline personality disorder. Most psychotherapy occurs with a licensed, trained mental health professional in one-on-one sessions or with other people in group settings. Group sessions can help people with borderline personality disorder learn how to interact with others and express themselves effectively.
- Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) was developed specifically for people with borderline personality disorder. DBT uses concepts of mindfulness or awareness of one’s present situation and emotional state. DBT also teaches skills to help people manage intense emotions, reduce self-destructive behaviors, and improve relationships.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help people with borderline personality disorder identify and change core beliefs and behaviors that come from inaccurate perceptions and problems interacting with others. CBT may help people reduce mood swings and anxiety symptoms and may reduce the number of self-harming or suicidal behaviors.
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