Frequently Asked Questions About Borderline Personality Disorder

Understanding borderline personality disorder (BPD) can be complex due to the diverse range of symptoms and experiences associated with this condition. This article aims to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about BPD, offering a comprehensive overview of what BPD is, its causes, symptoms, and possible treatments.


What is Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition characterized by ongoing patterns of varying moods, self-image, and behavior. Individuals with BPD may experience intense episodes of anger, depression, and anxiety that can last from a few hours to days. These symptoms often result in impulsive actions and problems in relationships.


What are the Symptoms of BPD?

Individuals with BPD may experience a range of symptoms, including intense emotions and mood swings, impulsive and risky behavior, unstable relationships, chronic feelings of emptiness, and a recurrent fear of abandonment. They may also have episodes of stress-related paranoia or disassociation.


What Causes BPD?

The exact cause of BPD is unknown, but it's likely a combination of genetic, brain, environmental, and social factors. It has been observed that many individuals with BPD have a history of childhood trauma, abuse, or neglect. However, not everyone with these experiences develops BPD, indicating that other factors are also at play.


How is BPD Diagnosed?

BPD is typically diagnosed based on a detailed interview with a psychiatrist or psychologist and discussion of the person's symptoms and personal history. Diagnosis is usually made in adulthood, not because BPD does not occur in adolescents, but because professionals are cautious about prematurely labeling a young person's behavior.


Can BPD be Treated?

Yes, BPD can be treated. Although it was once viewed as a lifelong condition, recent research suggests that BPD symptoms can reduce over time, with many individuals experiencing fewer and less severe symptoms as they age. Treatments can include psychotherapy, such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), or medication.


Does BPD Affect Relationships?

Yes, one of BPD's key aspects is its impact on relationships. People with BPD tend to have unstable, intense relationships. They may fall in love quickly, idealize the person, and then suddenly switch to hating them. This is known as "splitting," a defense mechanism from the fear of abandonment.


How Can I Support a Loved One with BPD?

Supporting a loved one with BPD involves

  • learning about the disorder,
  • encouraging them to seek professional help,
  • setting boundaries, and
  • taking care of their mental health.

It's also crucial to remember that recovery takes time and patience.


Can People with BPD Lead Normal Lives?

Individuals with BPD can lead fulfilling, productive lives with the right treatment and support. Treatment can help them manage symptoms, maintain relationships, and pursue life goals.


This article is not exhaustive, but it provides a basic understanding of BPD. If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms of BPD, it's important to seek professional help.


Note: This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for professional diagnosis or treatment.

Grouport Offers BPD Group Supports Online & DBT Skills Group Online

Grouport Therapy delivers online Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) group support for individuals grappling with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Our virtual group sessions guide members in integrating diverse psychotherapy methods, including DBT, into their routines, empowering them to communicate and articulate themselves more effectively.


This therapeutic approach bolsters self-awareness and emotional management by employing mindfulness and acceptance, curbing destructive behaviors, and fostering better interpersonal bonds.

A certified therapist leads weekly remote group meetings, allowing members to participate from their own homes. Based on participant feedback, 70% observed considerable improvements within 8 weeks.


You don't have to tackle these difficulties singlehandedly. Register for one of our courses today and commence your journey towards impactful, lasting personal growth and renewed hope. Join our supportive community and collaborate in pursuit of a brighter future.


Facilitated by a therapist-instructor, this online group imparts essential new techniques to substitute behaviors and emotions that create friction in your daily life and relationships. Due to licensing constraints, our online DBT group therapy sessions are limited to Florida, New York, and New Jersey residents. We encourage you to explore our dialectical behavior therapy skills group if you reside outside these states. Our dialectical behavior skills groups kick off with intensive DBT Core Principles modules, which will help you begin to transform your mental health.

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.