Understanding Borderline Personality Disorder in Kids

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex mental health condition that typically begins in adolescence or early adulthood. However, it can also affect children, albeit less frequently. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options can support families dealing with BPD in children.


What is Borderline Personality Disorder?

Borderline Personality Disorder is a mental health disorder that affects people's thoughts and feelings about themselves and others. People with BPD often have intense, unstable relationships and may have a distorted self-image. This can lead to challenges with everyday tasks, relationships, and maintaining a stable mood.


BPD Symptoms in Children

It's important to note that children can display symptoms that might suggest BPD, but these can often indicate other mental health issues or even just part of normal childhood development. Children with BPD may exhibit the following symptoms:


Emotional Instability

Children with BPD may have intense mood swings, with their feelings changing rapidly and unpredictably. They may be extremely sensitive to perceived rejection or failure and may react with anger and distress.


Impulsive Behaviors

Impulsive behavior is a common symptom of BPD in children. They may engage in risky activities, exhibit rebellious behavior, or make impulsive decisions without considering the consequences.


Unstable Relationships

Children with BPD may have intense and unstable relationships. They may idealize someone one moment and then suddenly believe the person doesn't care or is cruel the next.


Distorted Self-Image

A distorted sense of self is another common symptom of BPD. The child may have frequent changes in self-identity or self-image, such as goals, values, or aspirations.


Causes of BPD in Children

BPD's exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetics, brain structure and function, and environmental, cultural, and social factors. Some children may be more vulnerable to developing BPD due to a family history of the disorder or experiencing traumatic events, such as abuse or neglect.


Treatment for BPD in Children

If you suspect your child may have BPD, it's essential to seek professional help. A mental health professional can diagnose properly and recommend appropriate treatment options. Treatments for BPD in children can include:


Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is the primary treatment for BPD. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) are often used. CBT can help children identify and change harmful thinking patterns, while DBT can teach children to regulate emotions, tolerate distress, and improve relationships.


Medication

While there's no specific drug to treat BPD, medications like antidepressants, mood stabilizers, or antipsychotics can manage co-occurring disorders or specific symptoms.


Family Therapy

Family therapy can be beneficial in treating BPD in children. It helps to improve communication within the family and can provide parents with strategies to support their child effectively.


BPD in children can be challenging to manage, but with the right treatment and support, children can learn to manage their symptoms and lead healthier, happier lives. Remember, early diagnosis and intervention are key to managing BPD effectively.


Supporting a Child with BPD

Supporting a child with Borderline Personality Disorder can be emotionally challenging, but your support is crucial to your child's recovery process.


Education is Key

Educating yourself about the disorder is the first step in supporting a child with BPD. The more you understand BPD, its causes, symptoms, and treatment, the better you can help your child.


Open Communication

Maintain open, honest communication with your child. Ensure they know they can talk to you about their feelings and experiences without judgment. This can help them feel safe and understood.


Consistency and Structure

Children with BPD may benefit from a consistent and structured environment. Regular routines can provide a sense of security and help manage symptoms.


Encourage Healthy Relationships

Help your child develop and maintain healthy relationships. Encourage them to express their feelings respectfully and help them understand that setting boundaries in their relationships is okay.


Self-Care

Taking care of your own mental health is crucial when supporting a child with BPD. Make sure to take time for yourself and seek support when needed.


Final Thoughts

While Borderline Personality Disorder in children can be challenging, it's essential to remember that support, understanding, and professional help can make a significant difference. Your support can help your child navigate their journey toward recovery and lead a fulfilling life. If your child has BPD, contact a mental health professional for guidance.

Grouport Offers BPD Group Supports Online & DBT Skills Group Online

Grouport Therapy offers online Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) group sessions to support individuals coping with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). This therapy approach utilizes mindfulness and acceptance to enhance self-awareness and emotional regulation, helping to reduce destructive behaviors and strengthen interpersonal connections. Our virtual group sessions instruct members on incorporating various psychotherapy techniques, such as DBT, into their everyday lives, enabling them to engage with others and express themselves more effectively.


Our qualified therapist conducts weekly group meetings remotely, allowing members to participate from the comfort of their own homes. As reported by participants, 70% witnessed significant progress within 8 weeks.


You don't need to confront these obstacles by yourself. Enroll in one of our courses today to embark on a path toward substantial, enduring transformation and renewed optimism. Become part of our community and collaborate towards a more promising future.


Please note that due to licensing limitations, our online DBT group therapy sessions are exclusively for residents of Florida, New York, and New Jersey. If you reside outside these states, consider joining our dialectical behavior therapy skills group. Led by a therapist-instructor, this online group will equip you with valuable new strategies to replace the behaviors and emotions that hinder your daily life and relationships.

Join a BPD Group Support Session

We offer DBT group therapy online to improve emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, & interpersonal skills. Get effective and affordable treatment.

Space is limited, so reserve your seat today.