The Stigmatization of Borderline Personality Disorder

Borderline personality disorder is often considered among the most emotionally painful (for sufferers and those affected by them) personality disorders. BPD is often diagnosed on the basis of quite a few symptoms and behaviors. According to the Lancet, BPD is a serious mental disorder with a characteristic pervasive pattern of instability in affect regulation, impulse control, interpersonal relationships, and self-image. It is known to affect about 1-2% of the general population. Many consider people who suffer from this condition to be dangerous, unwanted, and unworthy of help. This stigmatization makes it very hard for those affected to get help.

BPD and The Reasons for The Stigma

Those who suffer from Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) often experience stigma from the people around them in their daily lives. Doctors may treat them poorly and people who are aware of their diagnosis may avoid social interaction with them. This comes from the belief that those with BPD are a threat on multiple levels. They are capable of lashing out, lying, or manipulating people to get their way. Without proper help and support, these individuals can never unlearn these habits and improve. Individuals with BPD need to be cared for and given specialized medical treatment in order to live healthy and productive lives.