Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD)
"Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder also known as Borderline Personality Disorder/BPD, is a mental health disorder characterized by pervasive instability in moods, behavior, self-image, and interpersonal relationships. A diagnosis of EUPD means that an individual may find it difficult to manage their emotions, especially concerning how they feel about themselves and others."
Symptoms Of EUPD/BPD
Intense mood swings
Distorted and unstable sense of self or self-image
Making efforts to avoid
Feeling worried about people abandoning you
Difficulty maintaining stable relationships with loved ones i.e., friends and family.
Self-harming to manage emotional pain.
Feeling paranoid
Engaging in impulsive behaviours including substance misuse, spending sprees, reckless driving, etc.
Persistent thoughts of suicide
Chronic feelings of emptiness
Intense, inappropriate anger or problems controlling anger.
Dissociation i.e., feeling cut off from oneself, observing oneself from outside one’s body.
Note: the duration, frequency and severity of symptoms vary from person to person.
Causes Of EUPD/BPD
The exact causes of EUPD/BPD, are not fully understood. However, several factors may contribute to its development:
Genetics: There is evidence to suggest that genetics plays a role in the development of EUPD. Individuals with a family history of mental health disorders, including personality disorders, may be at higher risk of developing BPD themselves.
Environmental Factors: Adverse childhood experiences, such as abuse (physical, emotional, or sexual), neglect, or unstable family environments, can increase the risk of developing BPD. Traumatic events during childhood or adolescence may also contribute to the development of the disorder.
Neurobiological Factors: Some research suggests that abnormalities in brain structure and function, particularly in areas involved in emotional regulation and impulse control, may contribute to the development of EUPD.
Emotional Dysregulation: People with BPD often experience intense and rapidly shifting emotions, as well as difficulty regulating these emotions. This emotional dysregulation may contribute to the development and maintenance of the disorder.
Personality Traits: Certain personality traits, such as impulsivity, emotional sensitivity, and a tendency toward interpersonal conflict, may predispose individuals to develop BPD.
Note: there is no singular cause for EUPD individuals who are diagnosed with this illness are likely to have experienced a combination of these factors listed above.
Treatment
Psychotherapy:
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): This is one of the most well-known and effective therapies for EUPD. DBT focuses on teaching skills for emotion regulation, interpersonal effectiveness, distress tolerance, and mindfulness.
Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns and behaviours, with a focus on improving coping strategies and problem-solving skills.
Schema-Focused Therapy: This approach addresses longstanding patterns of thinking and behaviour (schemas) that contribute to EUPD symptoms, often stemming from early life experiences.
Medication:
While medication cannot cure EUPD, it can help manage specific symptoms such as depression, anxiety, impulsivity, and mood swings.
Antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotic medications may be prescribed based on individual symptoms and needs.
Medication management is often done in conjunction with psychotherapy.
Supportive Interventions:
Group therapy or support groups specifically for individuals with EUPD can provide validation, understanding, and encouragement.
Family therapy may help improve communication and support within the family system.
Case management services can assist individuals with accessing resources, managing daily tasks, and navigating healthcare systems.
Self-Help Strategies:
Practising mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help regulate emotions and reduce impulsivity.
Engaging in regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can improve overall well-being.
Keeping a journal to track emotions, triggers, and coping strategies can enhance self-awareness and facilitate therapy progress.
Long-term Care and Maintenance:
Recovery from EUPD often involves ongoing management and support.
Regular therapy sessions, medication management, and participation in support groups may be necessary to maintain progress and prevent relapse.
Developing a crisis plan and identifying support networks can help individuals manage difficult situations or periods of heightened distress.
References
Borderline Personality disorder. (2023, April). National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). Retrieved March 1, 2024, from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/borderline-personality-disorder
Chapman, J., Jamil, R. T., & Fleisher, C. (2023, June 2). Borderline Personality disorder. StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430883/