259 SelfWork: Understanding Borderline Personality Disorder
In today’s episode, sponsored by Athletic Greens, I want to talk about borderline personality disorder, but in a different way than I have before on SelfWork. I’ve mostly written about what it’s like to try to love someone with a serious personality disorder, like narcissism or borderline personality disorders. But today, I want to talk about what it’s like to have borderline traits – and the fears and struggles that come with it. I”ll use two women’s stories from my own practice and the work of Rosie Cappuccino, author of Talking About BPD. We’ll touch on the differences between borderline and bipolar disorders, and also discuss how the diagnosis of borderline can bring with it judgment from not only the general public, but from the mental health profession.
The listener voicemail for today comes from a woman who describes that she has a wonderful life – and that she’s troubled or haunted or saddened or feels guilty (that’s a little unclear) for not loving her mother. And frankly, not even liking her. We’ll talk about her question – and I’ll try to answer as best I can.
Important Links:
Click Here for the fabulous offer from Athletic Greens – now AG1 – with bonus product with your subscription!
Rosie Cappucino’s book on having borderline issues.
Rosie Cappucino’s blog excerpt/ Talking About BPD
List of BPD traits from the Mayo Clinic
Episode 086 of SelfWork on loving someone with BPD
SelfWork Episode on nine ways to effectively communicate with someone with BPD
Difference between bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder
HuffPost article by Dr. Jay Watts
My new book entitled Perfectly Hidden Depression has arrived and you can order here! Its message is specifically for those with a struggle with strong perfectionism which acts to mask underlying emotional pain. But the many self-help techniques described can be used by everyone who chooses to begin to address emotions long hidden away that are clouding and sabotaging your current life.
And there’s a new way to send me a message! You can record by clicking below and ask your question or make a comment. You’ll have 90 seconds to do so and that time goes quickly. By recording, you’re giving SelfWork (and me) permission to use your voice on the podcast. I’ll look forward to hearing from you!