Borderline Personality Disorder – Sub-types


Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a serious mental health condition that affects how you think, feel, and interact with others. People with BPD have difficulty regulating their emotions, and they often have intense and unstable relationships. BPD can also lead to self-destructive behaviors, such as self-harm or suicide.

There are four main subtypes of BPD: impulsive, discouraged, self-destructive, and petulant. Each subtype has its own unique set of symptoms and characteristics.

Impulsive BPD

People with impulsive BPD have difficulty controlling their impulses. They may engage in risky or dangerous behaviors, such as substance abuse, reckless driving, or unprotected sex. They may also have difficulty controlling their anger, and they may lash out at others verbally or physically.

Discouraged BPD

People with discouraged BPD have low self-esteem and feel like they are a burden to others. They may be passive and withdrawn, and they may have difficulty making decisions. They may also have suicidal thoughts or feelings.

Self-destructive BPD

People with self-destructive BPD engage in behaviors that are harmful to themselves, such as self-harm or suicide. They may also have a history of trauma or abuse.

Petulant BPD

People with petulant BPD are easily angered and resentful. They may have a short fuse and may lash out at others verbally or physically. They may also be demanding and controlling, and they may have difficulty accepting criticism.

It is important to note that these are just general descriptions of the four main subtypes of BPD. Not everyone with BPD will fit neatly into one category. It is also possible to have more than one subtype.

If you think you may have BPD, it is important to seek professional help. A therapist can help you understand your symptoms and develop coping mechanisms. There are also a number of support groups available for people with BPD.

With treatment, BPD can be managed and you can live a full and productive life.

Symptoms of BPD

The symptoms of BPD can vary from person to person, but they often include:

  • Unstable relationships: People with BPD have difficulty maintaining stable relationships with others. They may idealize people at first, but then quickly become critical and demanding.
  • Impulsive behavior: People with BPD often act impulsively without thinking about the consequences. This can lead to risky or dangerous behaviors, such as substance abuse, reckless driving, or unprotected sex.
  • Self-harm: People with BPD may engage in self-harm behaviors, such as cutting, burning, or hitting themselves.
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior: People with BPD are at an increased risk for suicide.
  • Extreme mood swings: People with BPD experience extreme mood swings, from feeling happy and euphoric to feeling sad and hopeless.
  • Feelings of emptiness: People with BPD often feel empty or void of emotion.
  • Fear of abandonment: People with BPD have a strong fear of abandonment. They may become clingy or possessive of their loved ones, and they may have difficulty coping with even minor separations.
  • Identity disturbance: People with BPD may have difficulty maintaining a stable sense of identity. They may feel like they are different people in different situations, and they may have difficulty making decisions about their lives.
  • Paranoia: People with BPD may experience paranoia or suspiciousness. They may believe that others are trying to hurt them or betray them.

Treatment for BPD

There is no cure for BPD, but there are effective treatments available. The most common treatment for BPD is psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy. Psychotherapy can help people with BPD understand their symptoms, develop coping mechanisms, and improve their relationships.

Other treatments that may be helpful for BPD include:

  • Medication: Some people with BPD may benefit from taking medication to help manage their symptoms. Medication is not a cure for BPD, but it can help to reduce the severity of symptoms and make it easier to participate in psychotherapy.
  • Support groups: There are many support groups available for people with BPD. These groups can provide a safe space for people to share their experiences, learn from each other, and get support.

Living with BPD

Living with BPD can be challenging, but it is possible to live a full and productive life. With treatment and support, people with BPD can manage their symptoms and build healthy relationships.

If you think you may have BPD, it is important to seek professional help. A therapist can help you understand your symptoms and develop coping mechanisms. There are also a number of support groups available for people with BPD.

With treatment, BPD can be managed and you can live a full and productive life.