Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), despite its challenging characteristics, has been dubbed “the good prognosis diagnosis.” This hopeful label underscores the potential for significant improvement when individuals with BPD engage in effective treatment. However, the journey toward healing doesn’t involve the individual alone; it extends to their family and close relations.
The Crucial Role of Family in BPD Recovery
When a person is diagnosed with BPD, starting therapy is a pivotal step. Health professionals often recommend that their family members and close friends also seek support. This is because recovery in isolation can be short-lived, especially if the person returns to a dysfunctional family environment. Such settings can impede progress and make sustained recovery challenging.
The Nature of BPD and Family Interactions
Even in families with the best intentions, harmful dynamics can develop, and often, no one is to blame. Managing a personality disorder—as well as living with one—presents continuous challenges without a clear roadmap. Individuals with BPD may experience ‘splitting,’ a pattern where they swing between idealizing and devaluing others. They might also undergo abrupt mood shifts, from intense rage to deep despair, and may live in fear of abandonment. These emotional states can lead to volatile interactions within the family, with harsh words and actions that leave lasting scars. Recognising these patterns and seeking help for emotional healing is crucial to prevent the perpetuation of conflict and despair.
Breaking the Cycle of Negativity
Families of BPD sufferers often find themselves trapped in cycles of negative communication, co-dependency and chaos. This dynamic, unfortunately, can contribute to the development of BPD in family members. No family wishes to create such a legacy, but recognising these patterns is the first step towards breaking them. Comprehensive support systems and therapy can help families navigate the complexities of BPD, alleviating the fatigue and pain associated with the disorder.
Resources and Support for Families
Organisations like the National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder (NEA-BPD) offer valuable resources such as the 12-week Family Connections Program. This program is available throughout the United States and provides education, skill-building, and support for families affected by BPD. Moreover, the availability of mental health professionals trained in BPD has increased, offering more specialised support than ever before. Real-time and online support groups also provide a space for families to seek advice, share experiences, and find comfort.
Embracing the Journey Together
If your family is dealing with BPD, consider the possibility that not only the diagnosed member needs help. The entire family unit might benefit from therapy and education to better understand and support each other. Embrace this challenge not as a burden, but as an opportunity for growth and learning. Like Declan and his family in our example, let the experience teach and strengthen you rather than tearing you apart.
