bipolar awareness month
The awareness of this condition is much needed. What condition is more misunderstood and maligned than that? Many myths and misconceptions that exist in addition serve to stigmatize people with this diagnosis (or even those who are mistakenly given this diagnosis).
I understand Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) as a complex trauma disorder. See Annex I went wrong, as well as emotional, physical, and / or sexual abuse as grounds factors. I have written with previously about how trauma impacts children's development of basic skills like self-soothing, emotion management. I think many of the behaviors associated with BPD, such as self-injury, can be understood as stemming from these deficits. In short, people with BPD are doing the best that can given what little they have received in childhood.Â've worked with many clients who have spoken on the use of self-harm as a way to take care of themselves, a way to manage emotions or even unbearable toa half prevent a suicide attempt.
I am very aware that not everyone shares my point of view, and even some mental health professionals and therapists have negative reactions to BPD.
Why is this disease so badly? Is it just another example of how our society has such deep denial about the long term and serious impact of child abuse and neglect? Is it a form of victim blaming?
What are your reactions to BPD? Have you ever received this diagnosis? If so, how did you feel? What reactions and misconceptions they are aware of others? For more information and ideas on increasing awareness of BPD, check out the National Alliance for Borderline Education Personality Disorder.
Dr. Young is a licensed clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience. She has been in private practice in Chicago, Illinois since 1992. Her career focus has been on treating trauma and its aftermath.
She is also an EMDR trained therapist and has completed the Illinois 40-hour Domestic Violence Training. Dr. Young received her doctorate in clinical psychology (Psy.D.) from the Illinois School of Professional Psychology in 1990. For more information: http://www.drkathleenyoung.com
