Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition that can affect how a person experiences emotions, relationships, self-image, and stressful situations. Someone with BPD may experience emotions very intensely and sometimes have difficulty calming those emotions once they are triggered. They may also struggle with fears of abandonment, unstable relationships, impulsive behavior, feelings of emptiness, or rapidly changing views of themselves or other people.

BPD can look different from person to person. Having BPD does not mean someone is manipulative, dangerous, or incapable of having healthy relationships. With appropriate treatment, support, and coping skills, many people with BPD experience significant improvement and build fulfilling lives.

Helpful coping mechanisms can include:

• Pause before reacting. Give yourself time before sending a message, making a decision, or responding when emotions are intense.

• Ground yourself. Try slow breathing, holding something cold, naming five things you can see, or focusing on your immediate surroundings.

• Identify your triggers. Journaling can help you recognize situations that lead to intense emotions and notice patterns over time.

• Check the facts. Ask yourself, “What actually happened, and what am I assuming might happen?”

• Find healthy emotional outlets. Exercise, music, art, writing, prayer/meditation, or talking with someone you trust can help.

• Practice healthy communication. Explain what you're feeling rather than immediately acting on the emotion.

• Use a coping plan. Keep a short list of people, activities, and strategies you can turn to when you're overwhelmed.

• Consider therapy. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) was specifically developed to help with problems such as intense emotions, impulsive behaviors, distress tolerance, and relationship difficulties associated with BPD.

Most importantly, BPD is treatable. A diagnosis describes challenges someone is experiencing—it doesn't define their personality, worth, or future.