Borderline Personality Disorder

Borderline personality disorder impacts mood, relationships, and self-image. At NuMind Psychiatry in Seattle and Kennewick, Washington, Jay Rivas, DNP, PMHNP-BC, and his colleagues offer expert diagnosis and treatment for borderline personality disorder using proven therapeutic approaches. Their compassionate care helps patients develop healthier coping skills and more stable relationships. Reach out to NuMind Psychiatry today by phone or online to take your first step toward healing and emotional balance.

What is borderline personality disorder?

Borderline personality disorder affects how you think, feel, and interact with others. People with borderline personality disorder often struggle with intense emotions, unstable relationships, low self-image, and impulsive behaviors.

At NuMind Psychiatry, Dr. Rivas and his colleagues understand the challenges of borderline personality disorder. They provide compassionate, personalized care to help patients manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.

What are the common symptoms of borderline personality disorder?

Borderline personality disorder symptoms can vary, but they often include the following:

• Intense mood swings
• Fear of abandonment, even when it’s not real
• Rapid changes in self-image or goals
• Unstable or intense relationships
• Impulsive actions, like spending sprees or risky behavior
• Feelings of emptiness
• Difficulty controlling anger
• Self-harming behaviors or suicidal thoughts

Not everyone with borderline personality disorder experiences all of these symptoms, and symptom intensity differs from person to person.

What causes borderline personality disorder?

The exact cause of borderline personality disorder isn’t clear, but it likely develops from a combination of factors. These include the following:

• Genetics  
• Brain chemistry
• Early life experiences, such as trauma and neglect
• Unstable relationships in childhood

NuMind Psychiatry takes a non-judgmental approach, recognizing that borderline personality disorder is not a character flaw but a treatable mental health condition.

How is borderline personality disorder diagnosed?

Diagnosing borderline personality disorder involves a careful diagnostic assessment. NuMind Psychiatry’s providers evaluate your symptoms, personal and family history, and emotional patterns. They may also use screening tools or questionnaires to assess their condition.

Because borderline personality disorder shares symptoms with other conditions, accurate diagnosis is key to finding the proper treatment.

What are the treatment options for borderline personality disorder?

While there’s no cure for borderline personality disorder, many people improve with the proper support. Treatment options include the following:

Psychotherapy

Talk therapies like dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) are especially effective for borderline personality disorder. It teaches skills like emotional regulation, mindfulness, and healthier relationship strategies.

Medication

While no single medication treats borderline personality disorder directly, certain medicines can help manage mood swings, anxiety, and depression.

Healthy habits, stress management, and strong support systems also make a big difference for people living with borderline personality disorder. NuMind Psychiatry takes a holistic approach, tailoring each treatment plan to fit the unique needs of every patient.

To benefit from expert borderline personality disorder diagnosis and treatment, call the office or book an appointment online today.