Cycle 17 - Video 2 - Smarter Than BPD Quiz

Managing Borderline Personality Disorder: Tips for Loved Ones

• Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a treatable and manageable disorder.

• 78 to 99% of individuals with BPD and BPD traits experience a remission of symptoms.

• BPD is not a lost cause and individuals with BPD can learn to manage symptom distress and improve interpersonal functioning.

• Individuals with BPD experience a feeling of disconnection from the world around them, and this separation can be compared to being trapped in a mason jar.

• It's important not to blame all negative behavior on BPD as it creates a wedge between loved ones and encourages BPD acting out.

• Transparency is critical in relationships with individuals with BPD as they have a fear of abandonment and poor ability to assess situations accurately.

• Clear communication is necessary, and it's essential to lead by example and do what you say and say what you do.

• Boundaries are crucial in relationships with individuals with BPD, and healthy boundaries need to be defined and communicated clearly.

• It's important not to give in or relent when setting boundaries as it shows loved ones that you're a liar and encourages them to act out.

• Rules of engagement need to be set, such as no yelling, throwing objects, or harming each other, and consequences need to be established if these rules are broken.

• Avoid dredging up the past and using finger-pointing or blaming language as it encourages BPD acting out.

• It's essential to control your emotions and not let your loved one push your buttons.Tips for Dealing with Someone with Borderline Personality Disorder

• It's important to set boundaries with someone who has Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).

• Building a wall around your "button" (things that trigger the person with BPD) and not letting them push it easily is crucial.

• Relaxation techniques, management strategies, firm boundaries, identifying consequences, and using eye strategies are all important skills to learn when dealing with someone with BPD.

• Staying on point and avoiding drifting into other topics is important when talking to someone with BPD about drug and alcohol use.

• Taking care of yourself is crucial when dealing with someone with BPD.

• Don't neglect your physical health and make sure you exercise, eat well, and get quality sleep.

• Erratic and broken sleep patterns are common in individuals with BPD, so it's important to prioritize sleep.

• Stay away from too much caffeine and alcohol to avoid burning out and reverting to old behaviors.

• Avoid isolating the person with BPD, but feel free to spend time with positive friends and family members.

• Explain to the person with BPD that you need a break, but don't blame them or make them feel abandoned.

• Use transparency and set boundaries to establish what constitutes an emergency and avoid being bombarded with texts.

• Reward positive behavior from the person with BPD when they respond well to boundaries and appropriate transparency.