Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) carries a considerable burden of pain and impairment. It is commonly found to co-occur with other medical or psychiatric conditions. Studies have suggested that BPD affects around 1.6 percent of the general population. The same health issue also affects up to 20 percent of individuals in psychiatric care settings.
Personality disorders are complex and can be disruptive to the lives of those who have them. They require help from professionals and understanding and patience from family, friends, and other support networks. Here are some tips for helping people with personality disorders.
Be Patient and Understanding
When helping someone with a personality disorder, it is essential to remain patient and understanding. It is easy to become frustrated or angry with someone struggling to regulate their emotions or cope with stress. However, it is essential to remember that these behaviors are part of the disorder and should not be taken personally.
Additionally, it is important to remember that progress takes time. Personality disorders are complex and can take a long time to diagnose and treat properly. It is important to give someone with a personality disorder the space and support they need to progress.
Finally, when helping someone with a personality disorder, it is also important to practice self-care. It can be emotionally draining and overwhelming to assist someone through this process, so it is crucial to ensure that you take care of yourself. Seek support from friends or family members and talk to a mental health professional if necessary. This will help ensure that you can stay strong throughout the process.
When assisting someone with a personality disorder, it is vital to remain patient, understanding, and supportive. It is also essential to practice self-care and seek support if necessary to ensure that you can handle the situation effectively. With patience and dedication, you can help someone with a personality disorder manage their symptoms and live a fulfilling life.
Encourage Professional Help
Encouraging professional help may be necessary for those with personality disorders to get better. Mental health professionals can provide diagnoses and treatment options to help manage personality disorder symptoms. If possible, offer your support in finding a qualified mental health professional specializing in treating personality disorders or supporting those with them.
You can also look for a reputable intensive outpatient group therapy center. The center should be well-versed in helping those with personality disorders and should be able to provide individualized care. The center should also have the latest research-based therapeutic approaches to help manage personality disorder symptoms. Every patient will respond favorably to traditional treatment modalities, such as cognitive behavioral therapy or psychotherapy. It may also be necessary for qualified professionals to explore other options. Many centers offer alternative treatments such as art therapy, music therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches that can benefit those with personality disorders.
Finally, family members of someone with a personality disorder should seek professional help to better understand how to support their loved ones. A qualified therapist can help family members find ways to communicate and work together to create a healthy environment for their loved one with a personality disorder. The therapist can also help family members better understand the nature of personality disorders and how to manage them in daily life. Support groups may be available in some areas, providing guidance and resources on living with a personality disorder.
Provide a Supportive Environment
Providing a supportive environment can help those with personality disorders feel more secure and better manage their symptoms. Let the person know you are there for them regardless of their feelings, so they don’t feel like they have to bottle up their emotions or put on a brave face all the time. Create an atmosphere where open communication is encouraged. Be willing to listen without judgment or criticism and provide constructive feedback when appropriate.
A supportive environment can also be created through individual and group therapy. Nurturing a sense of hope, helping the person identify their goals and aspirations, and offering guidance in achieving those goals can all go a long way towards providing support for someone with a personality disorder. Encourage them to participate in activities that make them feel good about themselves, such as art or music classes, reading clubs, or volunteer work. Doing things that bring them joy and make them feel like they’re a part of something bigger can be highly beneficial. Finally, educate yourself on personality disorders to better understand the individual’s behaviors and challenges.
Helping someone with a personality disorder requires patience, understanding, and compassion from family members, friends, and support networks. It’s helpful to create a supportive environment where open communication is encouraged and professional help is sought when needed. By following these tips, you can ensure that your loved one gets the care they need while still providing them with emotional support during difficult times.
