BPD is a diagnosis that is unfortunately surrounded by a lot of stigma.

Here are some common misconceptions about BPD

“Theyre just moody”

Whilst a core problem for those with BPD is emotional instability, BPD warriors experience instability in all areas, from relationships to self image, and whilst emotional reactions are intense, they are often caused by a valid trigger and are fast changing. 

“She’s being manipulative”

Whilst a behaviour may seem manipulative, for example making a threat to self harm, these behaviours are rather caused by a need to protect ones self from external harm or from an intense fear of being abandoned. Labelling behaviour as manipulative overlooks the genuine distress that causes the behaviour.

“He cant have BPD, he’s a man”

Wrong, both men and women can be diagnosed with BPD, whilst it is mostly women who are diagnosed, it is thought that many men may be misdiagnosed with other psychiatric illnesses instead.

“She has BPD, she cant be helped”

With the correct support in place individuals with BPD can make many positive changes. DBT is a highly effective therapy specifically for those with BPD, and it is possible with hard work and appropriate support that some individuals diagnosed with BPD after some time no longer meet the diagnostic criteria.

“They’re dangerous”

This is a highly stigmatising misconception. The majority of individuals with BPD are not violent and have no desire to harm others. In fact individuals with BPD are more vulnerable to being the victims of abusive behaviour.

“He just wants attention”

Behaviours that are often seen as attention seeking are more often an individual's way of coping with the overwhelming distress and pain they are feeling. Labelling these behaviours such as self harm as attention seeking means an individual will be less likely to seek the help they need and deserve.