🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 129 (from laksa033)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa129.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/borderline-personality-disorder\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/borderline-personality-disorder\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/borderline-personality-disorder","crawl_time":1775048590,"first_indexed_time":1591071766,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"gov,nih!nimh,www,\/health\/publications\/borderline-personality-disorder s443","src_root_hash":"7295144728021232729","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Borderline Personality Disorder - National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)","meta_descriptions":["Information about borderline personality disorder, including signs and symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments for borderline personality disorder."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"En español\nWhat is borderline personality disorder?\nBorderline personality disorder is a serious mental illness that affects how a person feels about themselves and others and makes it hard to function in everyday life. The disorder often involves difficulty regulating emotions, leading to impulsivity, an unstable or often changing sense of self, and troubled relationships with others.\nEffective treatments are available to manage the symptoms of borderline personality disorder. Learn more about the disorder, its diagnosis and treatment, and how to find help.\nWhat are the signs and symptoms of borderline personality disorder?\nPeople with borderline personality disorder often experience intense mood swings and uncertainty about how they see themselves. Their interests, values, and feelings can change quickly. They also tend to view things in extremes, such as all good or all bad. This is often seen in social interactions, which may swing from extreme closeness to extreme dislike, resulting in unstable relationships and emotional pain.\nOther symptoms can include:\nAvoiding real or perceived abandonment, such as by jumping into or out of relationships quickly\nA pattern of intense and unstable relationships with family, friends, and loved ones\nHigh sensitivity to rejection and feelings of alienation or isolation\nA distorted and unstable self-image or sense of self\nIntense and highly variable moods, with episodes lasting from a few hours to a few days\nChronic feelings of emptiness\nInappropriate, intense anger or problems controlling anger\nFeelings of dissociation, such as being cut off from oneself, observing oneself from outside the body, or feeling disconnected from one’s surroundings\nSelf-harming behavior, such as cutting\nRecurring thoughts of suicide, threats of suicide, or suicidal behaviors\nSome people engage in impulsive or reckless behaviors, such as spending sprees, unsafe sex, substance use, dangerous driving, and binge eating. However, if these behaviors happen mostly during times of elevated mood or energy, they may be symptoms of another disorder, for example, a mood disorder, rather than borderline personality disorder.\nNot everyone with borderline personality disorder experiences all these symptoms. The severity, frequency, and duration of symptoms vary depending on the person.\nPeople with borderline personality disorder have a significantly higher rate of self-harm and suicidal thoughts and behavior than the general population.\nAnyone thinking of harming themselves or attempting suicide needs help right away\n.\nIf you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the\n988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline \nat\n988\nor chat at\n988lifeline.org \n. In life-threatening situations, call\n911\n.\nWhat causes borderline personality disorder?\nAlthough the exact cause of borderline personality disorder is unknown, research suggests that genetic, physical, environmental, and social factors may increase the risk of developing the disorder. These include the following risk factors.\nFamily history\n: People with a close family member (such as a parent or sibling) with the disorder may be at a higher risk of developing borderline personality disorder.\nBrain structure and function\n: Research shows that people with borderline personality disorder may have structural and functional changes in the brain, especially in areas that control impulses and regulate emotions. However, it is unclear whether these brain changes are risk factors for the disorder or a product of having the disorder.\nEnvironmental, cultural, and social factors\n: Many people with borderline personality disorder report experiencing traumatic life events, such as abuse, neglect, maltreatment, abandonment, or hardship during childhood. Others may have been exposed to unstable, invalidating relationships or frequent interpersonal conflicts.\nAlthough these factors may increase the risk for borderline personality disorder, experiencing them doesn’t mean a person will develop the disorder. Likewise, people without these risk factors can have the disorder as well.\nHow is borderline personality disorder diagnosed?\nA licensed mental health professional can diagnose borderline personality disorder based on a thorough discussion of symptoms and personal and family history, including history of mental illness. A medical exam can further rule out other possible causes.\nBorderline personality disorder is usually diagnosed in late adolescence or early adulthood. Occasionally, a person younger than 18 years will be diagnosed with the disorder if symptoms are severe and last at least a year.\nWhat other conditions can co-occur with borderline personality disorder?\nBorderline personality disorder often co-occurs with other mental and physical conditions. These can include mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, externalizing disorders like conduct problems and attention-deficit\/hyperactivity disorder, and metabolic-related disorders like diabetes and obesity.\nThese co-occurring conditions can make it harder to diagnose and treat borderline personality disorder, especially if the symptoms overlap. For example, a person with borderline personality disorder may be more likely to experience symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, or eating disorders.\nOverlaps between borderline personality disorder and other disorders can reflect shared features (for instance, impulsive behaviors are common in borderline personality disorder and a key symptom of bipolar disorder). However, symptoms of borderline personality disorder occur in the absence of significantly elevated mood seen during manic or hypomanic episodes, which is a key feature of bipolar disorder.\nHow is borderline personality disorder treated?\nEvidence-based treatments have been shown to help many people with borderline personality disorder experience fewer and less severe symptoms, improve their functioning, and have a better quality of life. People with the disorder should receive treatment from a licensed mental health professional.\nMany factors affect how long symptoms take to improve once treatment begins. It is important that people with borderline personality disorder and their loved ones be patient and receive support during treatment. It is also important to not only seek out—but stick with—treatment. Studies funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) indicate that people with borderline personality disorder who do not receive adequate treatment are more likely to develop other chronic illnesses and are less likely to make healthy lifestyle choices.\nPsychotherapy\nPsychotherapy, or talk therapy, is the primary treatment for borderline personality disorder. Most psychotherapy occurs with a licensed, trained mental health professional in one-on-one sessions or with other people in group settings. Group sessions may help people with borderline personality disorder learn to interact more constructively with others and express themselves more effectively.\nPsychotherapies used to treat borderline personality disorder include the following.\nDialectical behavior therapy (DBT)\n: This treatment was developed specifically for people with borderline personality disorder. DBT uses concepts of mindfulness or awareness of one’s present situation and emotional state. DBT also teaches skills to help people control intense emotions, reduce self-destructive behaviors, and improve relationships.\nCognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)\n: This treatment helps people identify and change core beliefs and behaviors that come from inaccurate perceptions of themselves and others and improve interactions with others. CBT can help reduce mood swings, anxiety symptoms, and self-harming or suicidal behaviors.\nTherapy for caregivers and family members is often helpful. Having a loved one with borderline personality disorder can be stressful, and family members or caregivers may unintentionally act in ways that worsen symptoms.\nAlthough more research is needed to determine how much family therapy helps with borderline personality disorder, studies of other mental disorders show that including family members can help support a person’s treatment. Families and caregivers can benefit from therapy by:\nDeveloping skills to understand and support a person with borderline personality disorder\nLearning about the needs and obstacles they face in caring for someone with the disorder and developing strategies to overcome them\nOther forms of psychotherapy may also be used to teach people with borderline personality disorder specific skills or address specific symptoms. Learn more about\npsychotherapy\n.\nMedication\nThe benefits of medication for borderline personality disorder are unclear, and it is not a first-line treatment for the disorder. However, in some cases, a health care provider may recommend medication as an add-on to psychotherapy to treat specific symptoms or co-occurring conditions such as mood swings or depression. Treatment with medication may require coordinated care from more than one provider.\nMedications can cause side effects in some people. Talk to a provider about what to expect from a medication. Learn more about\nmental health medications\n. Read the most up-to-date information on medications, side effects, and warnings on the\nU.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website \n.\nHow can I find help?\nIf you have concerns about your mental health, talk to a primary care provider. They can refer you to a qualified mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or clinical social worker, who can help you figure out next steps. Find\ntips for talking with a health care provider\nabout your mental health.\nThe Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has\ninformation on borderline personality disorder’s causes, symptoms, and treatment \n.\nYou can\nlearn more about getting help\non the NIMH website. You can also learn about\nfinding support \nand\nlocating mental health services \nin your area on the SAMHSA website.\nHow can I help a loved one with borderline personality disorder?\nHere are some ways to help a friend or family member with borderline personality disorder:\nLearn about the disorder to better understand what your loved one is experiencing.\nChange can be difficult and frightening for people with borderline personality disorder, but things can improve with time. Offer emotional support, validation, understanding, patience, and encouragement.\nEncourage your loved one to ask about family therapy. It is also important that they receive appropriate treatment for any co-occurring mental and physical conditions.\nHelp your loved one take their medications as prescribed and encourage them to discuss problems or concerns with their health care provider before stopping a medication or making any changes.\nLearn about your loved one’s treatment plan and find ways to help support their goals. Be open to learning new ways to offer support that are consistent with treatment goals.\nEncourage structure through daily scheduling and prioritizing a healthy lifestyle.\nTake comments about possible self-harm or suicide seriously. Encourage prompt contact with a mental health professional or the\n988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline \nby calling or texting 988, if necessary.\nSeek counseling for yourself. Choose a different therapist than the one your friend or family member is seeing.\nWhat are clinical trials and why are they important?\nClinical trials are research studies that look at ways to prevent, detect, or treat diseases and conditions. These studies help show whether a treatment is safe and effective in people. Some people join clinical trials to help doctors and researchers learn more about a disease and improve health care. Other people, such as those with health conditions, join to try treatments that aren’t widely available.\nNIMH supports clinical trials across the United States. Talk to a health care provider about clinical trials and whether one is right for you. Learn more about\nparticipating in clinical trials\n.\nFor more information\nLearn more about\nmental health disorders and topics\n. For information about various health topics, visit the\nNational Library of Medicine’s MedlinePlus \nresource.\nReprints\nThe information in this publication is in the public domain and may be reused or copied without permission. However, you may not reuse or copy images. Please\ncite the National Institute of Mental Health\nas the source.\nRead our copyright policy\nto learn more about our guidelines for reusing NIMH content.\nU.S. Department of Health and Human Services\nNational Institutes of Health\nRevised 2025","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to main content](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/borderline-personality-disorder#main-content)\n\n![](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/themes\/nimhtheme\/uswds\/images\/us_flag_small.png)\n\nAn official website of the United States government\n\nHere’s how you know\n\nHere’s how you know\n\n![](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/themes\/nimhtheme\/uswds\/images\/icon-dot-gov.svg)\n\n**Official websites use .gov**  \nA **.gov** website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.\n\n![](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/themes\/nimhtheme\/uswds\/images\/icon-https.svg)\n\n**Secure .gov websites use HTTPS**  \nA **lock** ( Locked padlock icon) or **https:\/\/** means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.\n\nDue to current HHS and NIH restructuring, some content on nimh.nih.gov is not being updated regularly. Please refer to [clinicaltrials.gov](https:\/\/clinicaltrials.gov\/) and [nih.gov](https:\/\/www.nih.gov\/about-nih\/nih-director\/statements\/nih-launches-initiative-modernize-strengthen-biosafety-oversight) for up-to-date information on NIH research.\n\n[![NIMH Logo](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/themes\/nimhtheme\/nimh-logo.svg)](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/ \"NIMH Home\")\n\n[In Crisis? Call or Text 988](https:\/\/988lifeline.org\/)\n\nTransforming the understanding   \n and treatment of mental illnesses.\n\n[Home](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/) \\| [Help for Mental Illnesses](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/find-help)\n\n[Información en español](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/espanol)\n\n- [Mental Health Information](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health)\n- [Get Involved](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/get-involved)\n- [Research](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/research)\n- [Funding](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding)\n- [News & Events](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/news)\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about)\n\n[Health Topics NIMH offers expert-reviewed information on mental disorders and a range of topics.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics)\n\n[Statistics NIMH statistics pages include statistics on the prevalence, treatment, and costs of mental illness for the population of the United States.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics)\n\n[Brochures and Fact Sheets Download, read, and order free NIMH brochures and fact sheets about mental disorders and related topics.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications)\n\n[Help for Mental Illnesses If you or someone you know has a mental illness, there are ways to get help. Use these resources to find help for yourself, a friend, or a family member.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/find-help)\n\n[Clinical Trials If you or a friend or family member are thinking about taking part in clinical research, this page contains basic information about clinical trials.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/trials)\n\n[Stakeholder Engagement Find out how NIMH engages a range of stakeholder organizations as part of its efforts to ensure the greatest public health impact of the research we support.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/get-involved\/public-involvement)\n\n[Connect with NIMH Learn more about NIMH newsletters, public participation in grant reviews, research funding, clinical trials, the NIMH Gift Fund, and connecting with NIMH on social media.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/get-involved\/connect-with-nimh)\n\n[Digital Shareables Use these free education and outreach materials in your community and on social media to spread the word about mental health and related topics.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/get-involved\/digital-shareables)\n\n[Science Education Use these free digital, outreach materials in your community and on social media to spread the word about mental health.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/get-involved\/science-education)\n\n[Research Funded by NIMH NIMH supports research at universities, medical centers, and other institutions via grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements. Learn more about NIMH research areas, policies, resources, and initiatives.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/research\/research-funded-by-nimh)\n\n[Research Conducted at NIMH (Intramural Research Program) The Division of Intramural Research Programs (IRP) is the internal research division of the NIMH. Over 40 research groups conduct basic neuroscience research and clinical investigations of mental illnesses, brain function, and behavior at the NIH campus in Bethesda, Maryland. Learn more about research conducted at NIMH.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/research\/research-conducted-at-nimh)\n\n[Priority Research Areas Learn about NIMH priority areas for research and funding that have the potential to improve mental health care over the short, medium, and long term.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/research\/priority-research-areas)\n\n[Resources for Researchers Information about resources such as data, tissue, model organisms and imaging resources to support the NIMH research community.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/research\/research-funded-by-nimh\/research-resources)\n\n[Opportunities & Announcements Find all NIMH and cross-NIH funding opportunities.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding\/opportunities-announcements)\n\n[Funding Strategy for Grants Read more about the NIMH Strategic Plan for Research, Strategic Research Priorities, the anatomy of NIMH funding, and our yearly funding strategy for research grants.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding\/funding-strategy-for-research-grants)\n\n[Application Process Explore the NIMH grant application process, including how to write your grant, how to submit your grant, and how the review process works.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding\/grant-writing-and-application-process)\n\n[Managing Grants Learn about how NIMH manages research grants, including policies and reporting requirements.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding\/managing-your-grant)\n\n[Clinical Research Find the latest NIH and NIMH policies, guidance, and resources for clinical research.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding\/clinical-research)\n\n[Training Explore NIMH research training and career development opportunities.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding\/training)\n\n[Small Business Research Learn about funding opportunities for small businesses.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding\/sbir)\n\n### Quick Links\n[Funding & Grant News](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding\/opportunities-announcements\/funding-grant-news)\n\n[Support for Clinical Trials at NIMH](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding\/opportunities-announcements\/clinical-trials-foas)\n\n[Science Updates List of NIMH science updates including press releases, research highlights, and institute announcements.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/news\/science-updates)\n\n[Meetings and Events Details about upcoming events—including meetings, conferences, workshops, lectures, webinars, and chats—sponsored by NIMH.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/news\/events)\n\n[Multimedia NIMH videos and podcasts featuring science news, lecture series, meetings, seminars, and special events.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/news\/media)\n\n[Innovation Speaker Series An annual lecture series dedicated to innovation, invention, and scientific discovery.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/news\/innovation-speaker-series)\n\n[About the Acting NIMH Director Learn more about the Acting Director of the NIMH, Shelli Avenevoli, Ph.D.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/director)\n\n[Advisory Boards and Groups Read about the boards and groups that advise and provide guidance to the Institute.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/advisory-boards-and-groups)\n\n[Strategic Plan Learn more about NIMH's roadmap for the Institute’s research priorities over the next five years.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/strategic-planning-reports)\n\n[Offices and Divisions Learn more about the functions of each NIMH office and division.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/organization)\n\n[Budget Read the annual NIMH Congressional Justifications.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/budget)\n\n[Careers at NIMH Search for jobs, including scientific, administrative and executive careers at NIMH.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/careers)\n\n[Staff Directories Find the names, telephone numbers, email addresses, and office locations of NIMH staff.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/staff-directories)\n\n[History Explore key milestones, discoveries, and the impact of NIMH-funded studies on mental health.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/nimh-history)\n\n[Getting to NIMH Find directions, maps, parking information, and other visitor information for NIMH.](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/connect-with-nimh)\n\n### Quick Links\n**[Contribute to Mental Health Research](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/connect-with-nimh\/donate-to-mental-health-research \"Donate to Mental Health Research\")**\n\n- [Mental Health Information](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health)\n  - [Mental Health Information Home](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health)\n  - [Health Topics](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics)\n  - [Statistics](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics)\n  - [Brochures and Fact Sheets](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications)\n  - [Help for Mental Illnesses](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/find-help)\n  - [Clinical Trials](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/trials)\n- [Get Involved](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/get-involved)\n  - [Get Involved Home](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/get-involved)\n  - [Stakeholder Engagement](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/get-involved\/public-involvement)\n  - [Connect with NIMH](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/get-involved\/connect-with-nimh)\n  - [Digital Shareables](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/get-involved\/digital-shareables)\n  - [Science Education](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/get-involved\/science-education)\n- [Research](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/research)\n  - [Research Home](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/research)\n  - [Research Funded by NIMH](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/research\/research-funded-by-nimh)\n  - [Research Conducted at NIMH (Intramural Research Program)](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/research\/research-conducted-at-nimh)\n- [Funding](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding)\n  - [Funding Home](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding)\n  - [Opportunities & Announcements](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding\/opportunities-announcements)\n  - [Strategy for Research Grants](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding\/funding-strategy-for-research-grants\/strategy-for-research-grants)\n  - [Grant Writing & Approval Process](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding\/grant-writing-and-application-process)\n  - [Managing Grants](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding\/managing-your-grant)\n  - [Clinical Research](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding\/clinical-research)\n  - [Research Training and Career Development Opportunities](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding\/training)\n  - [Small Business Research](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/funding\/sbir)\n- [News & Events](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/news)\n  - [News & Events Home](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/news)\n  - [Science Updates](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/news\/science-updates)\n  - [Meetings and Events](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/news\/events)\n  - [Multimedia](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/news\/media)\n  - [Social Media](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/news\/social-media)\n  - [Email Updates](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/news\/email-updates)\n  - [Innovation Speaker Series](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/news\/innovation-speaker-series)\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about)\n  - [About Us Home](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about)\n  - [About the Acting NIMH Director](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/director)\n  - [Advisory Boards and Groups](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/advisory-boards-and-groups)\n  - [Strategic Plan](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/strategic-planning-reports)\n  - [Offices and Divisions](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/organization)\n  - [Budget](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/budget)\n  - [Careers at NIMH](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/careers)\n  - [Staff Directories](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/staff-directories)\n  - [History](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/nimh-history)\n  - [Getting to NIMH](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/about\/connect-with-nimh)\n\n- [Health Topics](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics)\n- [Statistics](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics)\n- [Brochures and Fact Sheets](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications)\n- [Help for Mental Illnesses](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/find-help)\n- [Clinical Trials](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/trials)\n\n[Home](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/) \\> [Mental Health Information](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health) \\> [Brochures and Fact Sheets](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications) \\> Borderline Personality Disorder\n\n###### Share Page\nMenu\n\n- [What is borderline personality disorder?](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/borderline-personality-disorder#part_6359)\n- [What are the signs and symptoms of borderline personality disorder?](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/borderline-personality-disorder#part_6360)\n- [What causes borderline personality disorder?](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/borderline-personality-disorder#part_6361)\n- [How is borderline personality disorder diagnosed?](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/borderline-personality-disorder#part_6362)\n- [What other conditions can co-occur with borderline personality disorder?](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/borderline-personality-disorder#part_10416)\n- [How is borderline personality disorder treated?](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/borderline-personality-disorder#part_6363)\n- [How can I find help?](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/borderline-personality-disorder#part_12095)\n- [How can I help a loved one with borderline personality disorder?](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/borderline-personality-disorder#part_6364)\n- [What are clinical trials and why are they important?](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/borderline-personality-disorder#part_6365)\n- [For more information](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/borderline-personality-disorder#part_6367)\n- [Reprints](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/borderline-personality-disorder#part_11021)\n\n# Borderline Personality Disorder\n- [En español](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/espanol\/trastorno-limite-de-la-personalidad)\n\n## What is borderline personality disorder?\nBorderline personality disorder is a serious mental illness that affects how a person feels about themselves and others and makes it hard to function in everyday life. The disorder often involves difficulty regulating emotions, leading to impulsivity, an unstable or often changing sense of self, and troubled relationships with others.\n\nEffective treatments are available to manage the symptoms of borderline personality disorder. Learn more about the disorder, its diagnosis and treatment, and how to find help.\n\n## What are the signs and symptoms of borderline personality disorder?\nPeople with borderline personality disorder often experience intense mood swings and uncertainty about how they see themselves. Their interests, values, and feelings can change quickly. They also tend to view things in extremes, such as all good or all bad. This is often seen in social interactions, which may swing from extreme closeness to extreme dislike, resulting in unstable relationships and emotional pain.\n\nOther symptoms can include:\n\n- Avoiding real or perceived abandonment, such as by jumping into or out of relationships quickly\n- A pattern of intense and unstable relationships with family, friends, and loved ones\n- High sensitivity to rejection and feelings of alienation or isolation\n- A distorted and unstable self-image or sense of self\n- Intense and highly variable moods, with episodes lasting from a few hours to a few days\n- Chronic feelings of emptiness\n- Inappropriate, intense anger or problems controlling anger\n- Feelings of dissociation, such as being cut off from oneself, observing oneself from outside the body, or feeling disconnected from one’s surroundings\n- Self-harming behavior, such as cutting\n- Recurring thoughts of suicide, threats of suicide, or suicidal behaviors\n\nSome people engage in impulsive or reckless behaviors, such as spending sprees, unsafe sex, substance use, dangerous driving, and binge eating. However, if these behaviors happen mostly during times of elevated mood or energy, they may be symptoms of another disorder, for example, a mood disorder, rather than borderline personality disorder.\n\nNot everyone with borderline personality disorder experiences all these symptoms. The severity, frequency, and duration of symptoms vary depending on the person.\n\nPeople with borderline personality disorder have a significantly higher rate of self-harm and suicidal thoughts and behavior than the general population. **Anyone thinking of harming themselves or attempting suicide needs help right away**.\n\nIf you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the [988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline](https:\/\/988lifeline.org\/)  at **988** or chat at [988lifeline.org](https:\/\/988lifeline.org\/) . In life-threatening situations, call **911**.\n\n## What causes borderline personality disorder?\nAlthough the exact cause of borderline personality disorder is unknown, research suggests that genetic, physical, environmental, and social factors may increase the risk of developing the disorder. These include the following risk factors.\n\n- **Family history**: People with a close family member (such as a parent or sibling) with the disorder may be at a higher risk of developing borderline personality disorder.\n- **Brain structure and function**: Research shows that people with borderline personality disorder may have structural and functional changes in the brain, especially in areas that control impulses and regulate emotions. However, it is unclear whether these brain changes are risk factors for the disorder or a product of having the disorder.\n- **Environmental, cultural, and social factors**: Many people with borderline personality disorder report experiencing traumatic life events, such as abuse, neglect, maltreatment, abandonment, or hardship during childhood. Others may have been exposed to unstable, invalidating relationships or frequent interpersonal conflicts.\n\nAlthough these factors may increase the risk for borderline personality disorder, experiencing them doesn’t mean a person will develop the disorder. Likewise, people without these risk factors can have the disorder as well.\n\n## How is borderline personality disorder diagnosed?\nA licensed mental health professional can diagnose borderline personality disorder based on a thorough discussion of symptoms and personal and family history, including history of mental illness. A medical exam can further rule out other possible causes.\n\nBorderline personality disorder is usually diagnosed in late adolescence or early adulthood. Occasionally, a person younger than 18 years will be diagnosed with the disorder if symptoms are severe and last at least a year.\n\n## What other conditions can co-occur with borderline personality disorder?\nBorderline personality disorder often co-occurs with other mental and physical conditions. These can include mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, externalizing disorders like conduct problems and attention-deficit\/hyperactivity disorder, and metabolic-related disorders like diabetes and obesity.\n\nThese co-occurring conditions can make it harder to diagnose and treat borderline personality disorder, especially if the symptoms overlap. For example, a person with borderline personality disorder may be more likely to experience symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, or eating disorders.\n\nOverlaps between borderline personality disorder and other disorders can reflect shared features (for instance, impulsive behaviors are common in borderline personality disorder and a key symptom of bipolar disorder). However, symptoms of borderline personality disorder occur in the absence of significantly elevated mood seen during manic or hypomanic episodes, which is a key feature of bipolar disorder.\n\n## How is borderline personality disorder treated?\nEvidence-based treatments have been shown to help many people with borderline personality disorder experience fewer and less severe symptoms, improve their functioning, and have a better quality of life. People with the disorder should receive treatment from a licensed mental health professional.\n\nMany factors affect how long symptoms take to improve once treatment begins. It is important that people with borderline personality disorder and their loved ones be patient and receive support during treatment. It is also important to not only seek out—but stick with—treatment. Studies funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) indicate that people with borderline personality disorder who do not receive adequate treatment are more likely to develop other chronic illnesses and are less likely to make healthy lifestyle choices.\n\n### Psychotherapy\nPsychotherapy, or talk therapy, is the primary treatment for borderline personality disorder. Most psychotherapy occurs with a licensed, trained mental health professional in one-on-one sessions or with other people in group settings. Group sessions may help people with borderline personality disorder learn to interact more constructively with others and express themselves more effectively.\n\nPsychotherapies used to treat borderline personality disorder include the following.\n\n- **Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)**: This treatment was developed specifically for people with borderline personality disorder. DBT uses concepts of mindfulness or awareness of one’s present situation and emotional state. DBT also teaches skills to help people control intense emotions, reduce self-destructive behaviors, and improve relationships.\n- **Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)**: This treatment helps people identify and change core beliefs and behaviors that come from inaccurate perceptions of themselves and others and improve interactions with others. CBT can help reduce mood swings, anxiety symptoms, and self-harming or suicidal behaviors.\n\nTherapy for caregivers and family members is often helpful. Having a loved one with borderline personality disorder can be stressful, and family members or caregivers may unintentionally act in ways that worsen symptoms.\n\nAlthough more research is needed to determine how much family therapy helps with borderline personality disorder, studies of other mental disorders show that including family members can help support a person’s treatment. Families and caregivers can benefit from therapy by:\n\n- Developing skills to understand and support a person with borderline personality disorder\n- Learning about the needs and obstacles they face in caring for someone with the disorder and developing strategies to overcome them\n\nOther forms of psychotherapy may also be used to teach people with borderline personality disorder specific skills or address specific symptoms. Learn more about [psychotherapy](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/psychotherapies).\n\n### Medication\nThe benefits of medication for borderline personality disorder are unclear, and it is not a first-line treatment for the disorder. However, in some cases, a health care provider may recommend medication as an add-on to psychotherapy to treat specific symptoms or co-occurring conditions such as mood swings or depression. Treatment with medication may require coordinated care from more than one provider.\n\nMedications can cause side effects in some people. Talk to a provider about what to expect from a medication. Learn more about [mental health medications](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/mental-health-medications). Read the most up-to-date information on medications, side effects, and warnings on the [U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website](https:\/\/www.accessdata.fda.gov\/scripts\/cder\/daf\/index.cfm) .\n\n## How can I find help?\nIf you have concerns about your mental health, talk to a primary care provider. They can refer you to a qualified mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or clinical social worker, who can help you figure out next steps. Find [tips for talking with a health care provider](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/tips-for-talking-with-your-health-care-provider) about your mental health.\n\nThe Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has [information on borderline personality disorder’s causes, symptoms, and treatment](http:\/\/www.samhsa.gov\/mental-health\/borderline-personality-disorder) .\n\nYou can [learn more about getting help](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/find-help) on the NIMH website. You can also learn about [finding support](https:\/\/www.samhsa.gov\/find-support)  and [locating mental health services](https:\/\/findtreatment.samhsa.gov\/)  in your area on the SAMHSA website.\n\n## How can I help a loved one with borderline personality disorder?\nHere are some ways to help a friend or family member with borderline personality disorder:\n\n- Learn about the disorder to better understand what your loved one is experiencing.\n- Change can be difficult and frightening for people with borderline personality disorder, but things can improve with time. Offer emotional support, validation, understanding, patience, and encouragement.\n- Encourage your loved one to ask about family therapy. It is also important that they receive appropriate treatment for any co-occurring mental and physical conditions.\n- Help your loved one take their medications as prescribed and encourage them to discuss problems or concerns with their health care provider before stopping a medication or making any changes.\n- Learn about your loved one’s treatment plan and find ways to help support their goals. Be open to learning new ways to offer support that are consistent with treatment goals.\n- Encourage structure through daily scheduling and prioritizing a healthy lifestyle.\n- Take comments about possible self-harm or suicide seriously. Encourage prompt contact with a mental health professional or the [988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline](https:\/\/988lifeline.org\/)  by calling or texting 988, if necessary.\n- Seek counseling for yourself. Choose a different therapist than the one your friend or family member is seeing.\n## What are clinical trials and why are they important?\nClinical trials are research studies that look at ways to prevent, detect, or treat diseases and conditions. These studies help show whether a treatment is safe and effective in people. Some people join clinical trials to help doctors and researchers learn more about a disease and improve health care. Other people, such as those with health conditions, join to try treatments that aren’t widely available.\n\nNIMH supports clinical trials across the United States. Talk to a health care provider about clinical trials and whether one is right for you. Learn more about [participating in clinical trials](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/trials).\n\n## For more information\nLearn more about [mental health disorders and topics](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health). For information about various health topics, visit the [National Library of Medicine’s MedlinePlus](https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/)  resource.\n\n## Reprints\nThe information in this publication is in the public domain and may be reused or copied without permission. However, you may not reuse or copy images. Please [cite the National Institute of Mental Health](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/site-info\/citing-nimh-publications-and-webpages \"Citing NIMH Publications and Webpages\") as the source. [Read our copyright policy](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/site-info\/policies#part_2718 \"Website Policies\") to learn more about our guidelines for reusing NIMH content.\n\nU.S. Department of Health and Human Services  \nNational Institutes of Health  \nRevised 2025\n\n## Disclaimer\nWe link to external websites for informational purposes only, but we do not endorse or guarantee their accuracy. Once you leave our site, you will be subject to the new website’s privacy policy. Read NIMH’s [full external linking policy](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/site-info\/policies#part_2717) for more information.\n\n##### NIMH Resources\n[Health Topics](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics)   \n[Brochures and Fact Sheets](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications)   \n[Contact Us](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/site-info\/contact-nimh)   \n[Información en español](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/espanol)\n\n##### Policies and Notices\n[Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/site-info\/privacy-policy)   \n[Website Policies](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/site-info\/policies)   \n[FOIA](http:\/\/www.nih.gov\/icd\/od\/foia\/index.htm)    \n[Accessibility](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/site-info\/accessibility)   \n[HHS Vulnerability Disclosure](https:\/\/www.hhs.gov\/vulnerability-disclosure-policy\/index.html)\n\n##### Federal Resources\n[National Institutes of Health (NIH)](http:\/\/www.nih.gov\/)    \n[NIH Virtual Tour](https:\/\/www.nih.gov\/virtual-tour\/)    \n[U.S. Department of Health and Human Services](https:\/\/www.hhs.gov\/)    \n[USA.gov](http:\/\/www.usa.gov\/)\n\nThe National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is part of NIH, a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.\n\n[Top](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/borderline-personality-disorder#skipnav)","attrs_readable_markdown":"- [En español](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/espanol\/trastorno-limite-de-la-personalidad)\n\n## What is borderline personality disorder?\nBorderline personality disorder is a serious mental illness that affects how a person feels about themselves and others and makes it hard to function in everyday life. The disorder often involves difficulty regulating emotions, leading to impulsivity, an unstable or often changing sense of self, and troubled relationships with others.\n\nEffective treatments are available to manage the symptoms of borderline personality disorder. Learn more about the disorder, its diagnosis and treatment, and how to find help.\n\n## What are the signs and symptoms of borderline personality disorder?\nPeople with borderline personality disorder often experience intense mood swings and uncertainty about how they see themselves. Their interests, values, and feelings can change quickly. They also tend to view things in extremes, such as all good or all bad. This is often seen in social interactions, which may swing from extreme closeness to extreme dislike, resulting in unstable relationships and emotional pain.\n\nOther symptoms can include:\n\n- Avoiding real or perceived abandonment, such as by jumping into or out of relationships quickly\n- A pattern of intense and unstable relationships with family, friends, and loved ones\n- High sensitivity to rejection and feelings of alienation or isolation\n- A distorted and unstable self-image or sense of self\n- Intense and highly variable moods, with episodes lasting from a few hours to a few days\n- Chronic feelings of emptiness\n- Inappropriate, intense anger or problems controlling anger\n- Feelings of dissociation, such as being cut off from oneself, observing oneself from outside the body, or feeling disconnected from one’s surroundings\n- Self-harming behavior, such as cutting\n- Recurring thoughts of suicide, threats of suicide, or suicidal behaviors\n\nSome people engage in impulsive or reckless behaviors, such as spending sprees, unsafe sex, substance use, dangerous driving, and binge eating. However, if these behaviors happen mostly during times of elevated mood or energy, they may be symptoms of another disorder, for example, a mood disorder, rather than borderline personality disorder.\n\nNot everyone with borderline personality disorder experiences all these symptoms. The severity, frequency, and duration of symptoms vary depending on the person.\n\nPeople with borderline personality disorder have a significantly higher rate of self-harm and suicidal thoughts and behavior than the general population. **Anyone thinking of harming themselves or attempting suicide needs help right away**.\n\nIf you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the [988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline](https:\/\/988lifeline.org\/)  at **988** or chat at [988lifeline.org](https:\/\/988lifeline.org\/) . In life-threatening situations, call **911**.\n\n## What causes borderline personality disorder?\nAlthough the exact cause of borderline personality disorder is unknown, research suggests that genetic, physical, environmental, and social factors may increase the risk of developing the disorder. These include the following risk factors.\n\n- **Family history**: People with a close family member (such as a parent or sibling) with the disorder may be at a higher risk of developing borderline personality disorder.\n- **Brain structure and function**: Research shows that people with borderline personality disorder may have structural and functional changes in the brain, especially in areas that control impulses and regulate emotions. However, it is unclear whether these brain changes are risk factors for the disorder or a product of having the disorder.\n- **Environmental, cultural, and social factors**: Many people with borderline personality disorder report experiencing traumatic life events, such as abuse, neglect, maltreatment, abandonment, or hardship during childhood. Others may have been exposed to unstable, invalidating relationships or frequent interpersonal conflicts.\n\nAlthough these factors may increase the risk for borderline personality disorder, experiencing them doesn’t mean a person will develop the disorder. Likewise, people without these risk factors can have the disorder as well.\n\n## How is borderline personality disorder diagnosed?\nA licensed mental health professional can diagnose borderline personality disorder based on a thorough discussion of symptoms and personal and family history, including history of mental illness. A medical exam can further rule out other possible causes.\n\nBorderline personality disorder is usually diagnosed in late adolescence or early adulthood. Occasionally, a person younger than 18 years will be diagnosed with the disorder if symptoms are severe and last at least a year.\n\n## What other conditions can co-occur with borderline personality disorder?\nBorderline personality disorder often co-occurs with other mental and physical conditions. These can include mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, externalizing disorders like conduct problems and attention-deficit\/hyperactivity disorder, and metabolic-related disorders like diabetes and obesity.\n\nThese co-occurring conditions can make it harder to diagnose and treat borderline personality disorder, especially if the symptoms overlap. For example, a person with borderline personality disorder may be more likely to experience symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, or eating disorders.\n\nOverlaps between borderline personality disorder and other disorders can reflect shared features (for instance, impulsive behaviors are common in borderline personality disorder and a key symptom of bipolar disorder). However, symptoms of borderline personality disorder occur in the absence of significantly elevated mood seen during manic or hypomanic episodes, which is a key feature of bipolar disorder.\n\n## How is borderline personality disorder treated?\nEvidence-based treatments have been shown to help many people with borderline personality disorder experience fewer and less severe symptoms, improve their functioning, and have a better quality of life. People with the disorder should receive treatment from a licensed mental health professional.\n\nMany factors affect how long symptoms take to improve once treatment begins. It is important that people with borderline personality disorder and their loved ones be patient and receive support during treatment. It is also important to not only seek out—but stick with—treatment. Studies funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) indicate that people with borderline personality disorder who do not receive adequate treatment are more likely to develop other chronic illnesses and are less likely to make healthy lifestyle choices.\n\n### Psychotherapy\nPsychotherapy, or talk therapy, is the primary treatment for borderline personality disorder. Most psychotherapy occurs with a licensed, trained mental health professional in one-on-one sessions or with other people in group settings. Group sessions may help people with borderline personality disorder learn to interact more constructively with others and express themselves more effectively.\n\nPsychotherapies used to treat borderline personality disorder include the following.\n\n- **Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)**: This treatment was developed specifically for people with borderline personality disorder. DBT uses concepts of mindfulness or awareness of one’s present situation and emotional state. DBT also teaches skills to help people control intense emotions, reduce self-destructive behaviors, and improve relationships.\n- **Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)**: This treatment helps people identify and change core beliefs and behaviors that come from inaccurate perceptions of themselves and others and improve interactions with others. CBT can help reduce mood swings, anxiety symptoms, and self-harming or suicidal behaviors.\n\nTherapy for caregivers and family members is often helpful. Having a loved one with borderline personality disorder can be stressful, and family members or caregivers may unintentionally act in ways that worsen symptoms.\n\nAlthough more research is needed to determine how much family therapy helps with borderline personality disorder, studies of other mental disorders show that including family members can help support a person’s treatment. Families and caregivers can benefit from therapy by:\n\n- Developing skills to understand and support a person with borderline personality disorder\n- Learning about the needs and obstacles they face in caring for someone with the disorder and developing strategies to overcome them\n\nOther forms of psychotherapy may also be used to teach people with borderline personality disorder specific skills or address specific symptoms. Learn more about [psychotherapy](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/psychotherapies).\n\n### Medication\nThe benefits of medication for borderline personality disorder are unclear, and it is not a first-line treatment for the disorder. However, in some cases, a health care provider may recommend medication as an add-on to psychotherapy to treat specific symptoms or co-occurring conditions such as mood swings or depression. Treatment with medication may require coordinated care from more than one provider.\n\nMedications can cause side effects in some people. Talk to a provider about what to expect from a medication. Learn more about [mental health medications](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/mental-health-medications). Read the most up-to-date information on medications, side effects, and warnings on the [U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website](https:\/\/www.accessdata.fda.gov\/scripts\/cder\/daf\/index.cfm) .\n\n## How can I find help?\nIf you have concerns about your mental health, talk to a primary care provider. They can refer you to a qualified mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or clinical social worker, who can help you figure out next steps. Find [tips for talking with a health care provider](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/publications\/tips-for-talking-with-your-health-care-provider) about your mental health.\n\nThe Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has [information on borderline personality disorder’s causes, symptoms, and treatment](http:\/\/www.samhsa.gov\/mental-health\/borderline-personality-disorder) .\n\nYou can [learn more about getting help](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/find-help) on the NIMH website. You can also learn about [finding support](https:\/\/www.samhsa.gov\/find-support)  and [locating mental health services](https:\/\/findtreatment.samhsa.gov\/)  in your area on the SAMHSA website.\n\n## How can I help a loved one with borderline personality disorder?\nHere are some ways to help a friend or family member with borderline personality disorder:\n\n- Learn about the disorder to better understand what your loved one is experiencing.\n- Change can be difficult and frightening for people with borderline personality disorder, but things can improve with time. Offer emotional support, validation, understanding, patience, and encouragement.\n- Encourage your loved one to ask about family therapy. It is also important that they receive appropriate treatment for any co-occurring mental and physical conditions.\n- Help your loved one take their medications as prescribed and encourage them to discuss problems or concerns with their health care provider before stopping a medication or making any changes.\n- Learn about your loved one’s treatment plan and find ways to help support their goals. Be open to learning new ways to offer support that are consistent with treatment goals.\n- Encourage structure through daily scheduling and prioritizing a healthy lifestyle.\n- Take comments about possible self-harm or suicide seriously. Encourage prompt contact with a mental health professional or the [988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline](https:\/\/988lifeline.org\/)  by calling or texting 988, if necessary.\n- Seek counseling for yourself. Choose a different therapist than the one your friend or family member is seeing.\n## What are clinical trials and why are they important?\nClinical trials are research studies that look at ways to prevent, detect, or treat diseases and conditions. These studies help show whether a treatment is safe and effective in people. Some people join clinical trials to help doctors and researchers learn more about a disease and improve health care. Other people, such as those with health conditions, join to try treatments that aren’t widely available.\n\nNIMH supports clinical trials across the United States. Talk to a health care provider about clinical trials and whether one is right for you. Learn more about [participating in clinical trials](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/trials).\n\n## For more information\nLearn more about [mental health disorders and topics](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health). For information about various health topics, visit the [National Library of Medicine’s MedlinePlus](https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/)  resource.\n\n## Reprints\nThe information in this publication is in the public domain and may be reused or copied without permission. However, you may not reuse or copy images. Please [cite the National Institute of Mental Health](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/site-info\/citing-nimh-publications-and-webpages \"Citing NIMH Publications and Webpages\") as the source. [Read our copyright policy](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/site-info\/policies#part_2718 \"Website Policies\") to learn more about our guidelines for reusing NIMH content.\n\nU.S. Department of Health and Human Services  \nNational Institutes of Health  \nRevised 2025","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	En español What is borderline personality disorder? Borderline personality disorder is a serious mental illness that affects how a person feels about themselves and others and makes it hard to function in everyday life. The disorder often involves difficulty regulating emotions, leading to impulsivity, an unstable or often changing sense of self, and troubled relationships with others. Effective treatments are available to manage the symptoms of borderline personality disorder. Learn more about the disorder, its diagnosis and treatment, and how to find help. What are the signs and symptoms of borderline personality disorder? People with borderline personality disorder often experience intense mood swings and uncertainty about how they see themselves. Their interests, values, and feelings can change quickly. They also tend to view things in extremes, such as all good or all bad. This is often seen in social interactions, which may swing from extreme closeness to extreme dislike, resulting in unstable relationships and emotional pain. Other symptoms can include: Avoiding real or perceived abandonment, such as by jumping into or out of relationships quickly A pattern of intense and unstable relationships with family, friends, and loved ones High sensitivity to rejection and feelings of alienation or isolation A distorted and unstable self-image or sense of self Intense and highly variable moods, with episodes lasting from a few hours to a few days Chronic feelings of emptiness Inappropriate, intense anger or problems controlling anger Feelings of dissociation, such as being cut off from oneself, observing oneself from outside the body, or feeling disconnected from one’s surroundings Self-harming behavior, such as cutting Recurring thoughts of suicide, threats of suicide, or suicidal behaviors Some people engage in impulsive or reckless behaviors, such as spending sprees, unsafe sex, substance use, dangerous driving, and binge eating. However, if these behaviors happen mostly during times of elevated mood or energy, they may be symptoms of another disorder, for example, a mood disorder, rather than borderline personality disorder. Not everyone with borderline personality disorder experiences all these symptoms. The severity, frequency, and duration of symptoms vary depending on the person. People with borderline personality disorder have a significantly higher rate of self-harm and suicidal thoughts and behavior than the general population. Anyone thinking of harming themselves or attempting suicide needs help right away . If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org . In life-threatening situations, call 911 . What causes borderline personality disorder? Although the exact cause of borderline personality disorder is unknown, research suggests that genetic, physical, environmental, and social factors may increase the risk of developing the disorder. These include the following risk factors. Family history : People with a close family member (such as a parent or sibling) with the disorder may be at a higher risk of developing borderline personality disorder. Brain structure and function : Research shows that people with borderline personality disorder may have structural and functional changes in the brain, especially in areas that control impulses and regulate emotions. However, it is unclear whether these brain changes are risk factors for the disorder or a product of having the disorder. Environmental, cultural, and social factors : Many people with borderline personality disorder report experiencing traumatic life events, such as abuse, neglect, maltreatment, abandonment, or hardship during childhood. Others may have been exposed to unstable, invalidating relationships or frequent interpersonal conflicts. Although these factors may increase the risk for borderline personality disorder, experiencing them doesn’t mean a person will develop the disorder. Likewise, people without these risk factors can have the disorder as well. How is borderline personality disorder diagnosed? A licensed mental health professional can diagnose borderline personality disorder based on a thorough discussion of symptoms and personal and family history, including history of mental illness. A medical exam can further rule out other possible causes. Borderline personality disorder is usually diagnosed in late adolescence or early adulthood. Occasionally, a person younger than 18 years will be diagnosed with the disorder if symptoms are severe and last at least a year. What other conditions can co-occur with borderline personality disorder? Borderline personality disorder often co-occurs with other mental and physical conditions. These can include mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, externalizing disorders like conduct problems and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and metabolic-related disorders like diabetes and obesity. These co-occurring conditions can make it harder to diagnose and treat borderline personality disorder, especially if the symptoms overlap. For example, a person with borderline personality disorder may be more likely to experience symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, or eating disorders. Overlaps between borderline personality disorder and other disorders can reflect shared features (for instance, impulsive behaviors are common in borderline personality disorder and a key symptom of bipolar disorder). However, symptoms of borderline personality disorder occur in the absence of significantly elevated mood seen during manic or hypomanic episodes, which is a key feature of bipolar disorder. How is borderline personality disorder treated? Evidence-based treatments have been shown to help many people with borderline personality disorder experience fewer and less severe symptoms, improve their functioning, and have a better quality of life. People with the disorder should receive treatment from a licensed mental health professional. Many factors affect how long symptoms take to improve once treatment begins. It is important that people with borderline personality disorder and their loved ones be patient and receive support during treatment. It is also important to not only seek out—but stick with—treatment. Studies funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) indicate that people with borderline personality disorder who do not receive adequate treatment are more likely to develop other chronic illnesses and are less likely to make healthy lifestyle choices. Psychotherapy Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is the primary treatment for borderline personality disorder. Most psychotherapy occurs with a licensed, trained mental health professional in one-on-one sessions or with other people in group settings. Group sessions may help people with borderline personality disorder learn to interact more constructively with others and express themselves more effectively. Psychotherapies used to treat borderline personality disorder include the following. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) : This treatment was developed specifically for people with borderline personality disorder. DBT uses concepts of mindfulness or awareness of one’s present situation and emotional state. DBT also teaches skills to help people control intense emotions, reduce self-destructive behaviors, and improve relationships. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) : This treatment helps people identify and change core beliefs and behaviors that come from inaccurate perceptions of themselves and others and improve interactions with others. CBT can help reduce mood swings, anxiety symptoms, and self-harming or suicidal behaviors. Therapy for caregivers and family members is often helpful. Having a loved one with borderline personality disorder can be stressful, and family members or caregivers may unintentionally act in ways that worsen symptoms. Although more research is needed to determine how much family therapy helps with borderline personality disorder, studies of other mental disorders show that including family members can help support a person’s treatment. Families and caregivers can benefit from therapy by: Developing skills to understand and support a person with borderline personality disorder Learning about the needs and obstacles they face in caring for someone with the disorder and developing strategies to overcome them Other forms of psychotherapy may also be used to teach people with borderline personality disorder specific skills or address specific symptoms. Learn more about psychotherapy . Medication The benefits of medication for borderline personality disorder are unclear, and it is not a first-line treatment for the disorder. However, in some cases, a health care provider may recommend medication as an add-on to psychotherapy to treat specific symptoms or co-occurring conditions such as mood swings or depression. Treatment with medication may require coordinated care from more than one provider. Medications can cause side effects in some people. Talk to a provider about what to expect from a medication. Learn more about mental health medications . Read the most up-to-date information on medications, side effects, and warnings on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website . How can I find help? If you have concerns about your mental health, talk to a primary care provider. They can refer you to a qualified mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or clinical social worker, who can help you figure out next steps. Find tips for talking with a health care provider about your mental health. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has information on borderline personality disorder’s causes, symptoms, and treatment . You can learn more about getting help on the NIMH website. You can also learn about finding support and locating mental health services in your area on the SAMHSA website. How can I help a loved one with borderline personality disorder? Here are some ways to help a friend or family member with borderline personality disorder: Learn about the disorder to better understand what your loved one is experiencing. Change can be difficult and frightening for people with borderline personality disorder, but things can improve with time. Offer emotional support, validation, understanding, patience, and encouragement. Encourage your loved one to ask about family therapy. It is also important that they receive appropriate treatment for any co-occurring mental and physical conditions. Help your loved one take their medications as prescribed and encourage them to discuss problems or concerns with their health care provider before stopping a medication or making any changes. Learn about your loved one’s treatment plan and find ways to help support their goals. Be open to learning new ways to offer support that are consistent with treatment goals. Encourage structure through daily scheduling and prioritizing a healthy lifestyle. Take comments about possible self-harm or suicide seriously. Encourage prompt contact with a mental health professional or the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, if necessary. Seek counseling for yourself. Choose a different therapist than the one your friend or family member is seeing. What are clinical trials and why are they important? Clinical trials are research studies that look at ways to prevent, detect, or treat diseases and conditions. These studies help show whether a treatment is safe and effective in people. Some people join clinical trials to help doctors and researchers learn more about a disease and improve health care. Other people, such as those with health conditions, join to try treatments that aren’t widely available. NIMH supports clinical trials across the United States. Talk to a health care provider about clinical trials and whether one is right for you. Learn more about participating in clinical trials . For more information Learn more about mental health disorders and topics . For information about various health topics, visit the National Library of Medicine’s MedlinePlus resource. Reprints The information in this publication is in the public domain and may be reused or copied without permission. However, you may not reuse or copy images. Please cite the National Institute of Mental Health as the source. Read our copyright policy to learn more about our guidelines for reusing NIMH content. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Institutes of Health Revised 2025
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[What other conditions can co-occur with borderline personality disorder?](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/borderline-personality-disorder#part_10416) - [How is borderline personality disorder treated?](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/borderline-personality-disorder#part_6363) - [How can I find help?](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/borderline-personality-disorder#part_12095) - [How can I help a loved one with borderline personality disorder?](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/borderline-personality-disorder#part_6364) - [What are clinical trials and why are they important?](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/borderline-personality-disorder#part_6365) - [For more information](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/borderline-personality-disorder#part_6367) - [Reprints](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/borderline-personality-disorder#part_11021) # Borderline Personality Disorder - [En español](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/espanol/trastorno-limite-de-la-personalidad) ## What is borderline personality disorder? Borderline personality disorder is a serious mental illness that affects how a person feels about themselves and others and makes it hard to function in everyday life. The disorder often involves difficulty regulating emotions, leading to impulsivity, an unstable or often changing sense of self, and troubled relationships with others. Effective treatments are available to manage the symptoms of borderline personality disorder. Learn more about the disorder, its diagnosis and treatment, and how to find help. ## What are the signs and symptoms of borderline personality disorder? People with borderline personality disorder often experience intense mood swings and uncertainty about how they see themselves. Their interests, values, and feelings can change quickly. They also tend to view things in extremes, such as all good or all bad. This is often seen in social interactions, which may swing from extreme closeness to extreme dislike, resulting in unstable relationships and emotional pain. Other symptoms can include: - Avoiding real or perceived abandonment, such as by jumping into or out of relationships quickly - A pattern of intense and unstable relationships with family, friends, and loved ones - High sensitivity to rejection and feelings of alienation or isolation - A distorted and unstable self-image or sense of self - Intense and highly variable moods, with episodes lasting from a few hours to a few days - Chronic feelings of emptiness - Inappropriate, intense anger or problems controlling anger - Feelings of dissociation, such as being cut off from oneself, observing oneself from outside the body, or feeling disconnected from one’s surroundings - Self-harming behavior, such as cutting - Recurring thoughts of suicide, threats of suicide, or suicidal behaviors Some people engage in impulsive or reckless behaviors, such as spending sprees, unsafe sex, substance use, dangerous driving, and binge eating. However, if these behaviors happen mostly during times of elevated mood or energy, they may be symptoms of another disorder, for example, a mood disorder, rather than borderline personality disorder. Not everyone with borderline personality disorder experiences all these symptoms. The severity, frequency, and duration of symptoms vary depending on the person. People with borderline personality disorder have a significantly higher rate of self-harm and suicidal thoughts and behavior than the general population. Anyone thinking of harming themselves or attempting suicide needs help right away. If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the [988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline](https://988lifeline.org/) at 988 or chat at [988lifeline.org](https://988lifeline.org/) . In life-threatening situations, call 911. ## What causes borderline personality disorder? Although the exact cause of borderline personality disorder is unknown, research suggests that genetic, physical, environmental, and social factors may increase the risk of developing the disorder. These include the following risk factors. - Family history: People with a close family member (such as a parent or sibling) with the disorder may be at a higher risk of developing borderline personality disorder. - Brain structure and function: Research shows that people with borderline personality disorder may have structural and functional changes in the brain, especially in areas that control impulses and regulate emotions. However, it is unclear whether these brain changes are risk factors for the disorder or a product of having the disorder. - Environmental, cultural, and social factors: Many people with borderline personality disorder report experiencing traumatic life events, such as abuse, neglect, maltreatment, abandonment, or hardship during childhood. Others may have been exposed to unstable, invalidating relationships or frequent interpersonal conflicts. Although these factors may increase the risk for borderline personality disorder, experiencing them doesn’t mean a person will develop the disorder. Likewise, people without these risk factors can have the disorder as well. ## How is borderline personality disorder diagnosed? A licensed mental health professional can diagnose borderline personality disorder based on a thorough discussion of symptoms and personal and family history, including history of mental illness. A medical exam can further rule out other possible causes. Borderline personality disorder is usually diagnosed in late adolescence or early adulthood. Occasionally, a person younger than 18 years will be diagnosed with the disorder if symptoms are severe and last at least a year. ## What other conditions can co-occur with borderline personality disorder? Borderline personality disorder often co-occurs with other mental and physical conditions. These can include mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, externalizing disorders like conduct problems and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and metabolic-related disorders like diabetes and obesity. These co-occurring conditions can make it harder to diagnose and treat borderline personality disorder, especially if the symptoms overlap. For example, a person with borderline personality disorder may be more likely to experience symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, or eating disorders. Overlaps between borderline personality disorder and other disorders can reflect shared features (for instance, impulsive behaviors are common in borderline personality disorder and a key symptom of bipolar disorder). However, symptoms of borderline personality disorder occur in the absence of significantly elevated mood seen during manic or hypomanic episodes, which is a key feature of bipolar disorder. ## How is borderline personality disorder treated? Evidence-based treatments have been shown to help many people with borderline personality disorder experience fewer and less severe symptoms, improve their functioning, and have a better quality of life. People with the disorder should receive treatment from a licensed mental health professional. Many factors affect how long symptoms take to improve once treatment begins. It is important that people with borderline personality disorder and their loved ones be patient and receive support during treatment. It is also important to not only seek out—but stick with—treatment. Studies funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) indicate that people with borderline personality disorder who do not receive adequate treatment are more likely to develop other chronic illnesses and are less likely to make healthy lifestyle choices. ### Psychotherapy Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is the primary treatment for borderline personality disorder. Most psychotherapy occurs with a licensed, trained mental health professional in one-on-one sessions or with other people in group settings. Group sessions may help people with borderline personality disorder learn to interact more constructively with others and express themselves more effectively. Psychotherapies used to treat borderline personality disorder include the following. - Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): This treatment was developed specifically for people with borderline personality disorder. DBT uses concepts of mindfulness or awareness of one’s present situation and emotional state. DBT also teaches skills to help people control intense emotions, reduce self-destructive behaviors, and improve relationships. - Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This treatment helps people identify and change core beliefs and behaviors that come from inaccurate perceptions of themselves and others and improve interactions with others. CBT can help reduce mood swings, anxiety symptoms, and self-harming or suicidal behaviors. Therapy for caregivers and family members is often helpful. Having a loved one with borderline personality disorder can be stressful, and family members or caregivers may unintentionally act in ways that worsen symptoms. Although more research is needed to determine how much family therapy helps with borderline personality disorder, studies of other mental disorders show that including family members can help support a person’s treatment. Families and caregivers can benefit from therapy by: - Developing skills to understand and support a person with borderline personality disorder - Learning about the needs and obstacles they face in caring for someone with the disorder and developing strategies to overcome them Other forms of psychotherapy may also be used to teach people with borderline personality disorder specific skills or address specific symptoms. Learn more about [psychotherapy](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/psychotherapies). ### Medication The benefits of medication for borderline personality disorder are unclear, and it is not a first-line treatment for the disorder. However, in some cases, a health care provider may recommend medication as an add-on to psychotherapy to treat specific symptoms or co-occurring conditions such as mood swings or depression. Treatment with medication may require coordinated care from more than one provider. Medications can cause side effects in some people. Talk to a provider about what to expect from a medication. Learn more about [mental health medications](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications). Read the most up-to-date information on medications, side effects, and warnings on the [U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website](https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm) . ## How can I find help? If you have concerns about your mental health, talk to a primary care provider. They can refer you to a qualified mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or clinical social worker, who can help you figure out next steps. Find [tips for talking with a health care provider](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/tips-for-talking-with-your-health-care-provider) about your mental health. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has [information on borderline personality disorder’s causes, symptoms, and treatment](http://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/borderline-personality-disorder) . You can [learn more about getting help](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help) on the NIMH website. You can also learn about [finding support](https://www.samhsa.gov/find-support) and [locating mental health services](https://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/) in your area on the SAMHSA website. ## How can I help a loved one with borderline personality disorder? Here are some ways to help a friend or family member with borderline personality disorder: - Learn about the disorder to better understand what your loved one is experiencing. - Change can be difficult and frightening for people with borderline personality disorder, but things can improve with time. Offer emotional support, validation, understanding, patience, and encouragement. - Encourage your loved one to ask about family therapy. It is also important that they receive appropriate treatment for any co-occurring mental and physical conditions. - Help your loved one take their medications as prescribed and encourage them to discuss problems or concerns with their health care provider before stopping a medication or making any changes. - Learn about your loved one’s treatment plan and find ways to help support their goals. Be open to learning new ways to offer support that are consistent with treatment goals. - Encourage structure through daily scheduling and prioritizing a healthy lifestyle. - Take comments about possible self-harm or suicide seriously. Encourage prompt contact with a mental health professional or the [988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline](https://988lifeline.org/) by calling or texting 988, if necessary. - Seek counseling for yourself. Choose a different therapist than the one your friend or family member is seeing. ## What are clinical trials and why are they important? Clinical trials are research studies that look at ways to prevent, detect, or treat diseases and conditions. These studies help show whether a treatment is safe and effective in people. Some people join clinical trials to help doctors and researchers learn more about a disease and improve health care. Other people, such as those with health conditions, join to try treatments that aren’t widely available. NIMH supports clinical trials across the United States. Talk to a health care provider about clinical trials and whether one is right for you. Learn more about [participating in clinical trials](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/trials). ## For more information Learn more about [mental health disorders and topics](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health). For information about various health topics, visit the [National Library of Medicine’s MedlinePlus](https://medlineplus.gov/) resource. ## Reprints The information in this publication is in the public domain and may be reused or copied without permission. However, you may not reuse or copy images. Please [cite the National Institute of Mental Health](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/site-info/citing-nimh-publications-and-webpages "Citing NIMH Publications and Webpages") as the source. [Read our copyright policy](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/site-info/policies#part_2718 "Website Policies") to learn more about our guidelines for reusing NIMH content. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Institutes of Health Revised 2025 ## Disclaimer We link to external websites for informational purposes only, but we do not endorse or guarantee their accuracy. Once you leave our site, you will be subject to the new website’s privacy policy. Read NIMH’s [full external linking policy](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/site-info/policies#part_2717) for more information. ##### NIMH Resources [Health Topics](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics) [Brochures and Fact Sheets](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications) [Contact Us](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/site-info/contact-nimh) [Información en español](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/espanol) ##### Policies and Notices [Privacy Policy](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/site-info/privacy-policy) [Website Policies](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/site-info/policies) [FOIA](http://www.nih.gov/icd/od/foia/index.htm) [Accessibility](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/site-info/accessibility) [HHS Vulnerability Disclosure](https://www.hhs.gov/vulnerability-disclosure-policy/index.html) ##### Federal Resources [National Institutes of Health (NIH)](http://www.nih.gov/) [NIH Virtual Tour](https://www.nih.gov/virtual-tour/) [U.S. Department of Health and Human Services](https://www.hhs.gov/) [USA.gov](http://www.usa.gov/) The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) is part of NIH, a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. 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Readable Markdown	- [En español](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/espanol/trastorno-limite-de-la-personalidad) ## What is borderline personality disorder? Borderline personality disorder is a serious mental illness that affects how a person feels about themselves and others and makes it hard to function in everyday life. The disorder often involves difficulty regulating emotions, leading to impulsivity, an unstable or often changing sense of self, and troubled relationships with others. Effective treatments are available to manage the symptoms of borderline personality disorder. Learn more about the disorder, its diagnosis and treatment, and how to find help. ## What are the signs and symptoms of borderline personality disorder? People with borderline personality disorder often experience intense mood swings and uncertainty about how they see themselves. Their interests, values, and feelings can change quickly. They also tend to view things in extremes, such as all good or all bad. This is often seen in social interactions, which may swing from extreme closeness to extreme dislike, resulting in unstable relationships and emotional pain. Other symptoms can include: - Avoiding real or perceived abandonment, such as by jumping into or out of relationships quickly - A pattern of intense and unstable relationships with family, friends, and loved ones - High sensitivity to rejection and feelings of alienation or isolation - A distorted and unstable self-image or sense of self - Intense and highly variable moods, with episodes lasting from a few hours to a few days - Chronic feelings of emptiness - Inappropriate, intense anger or problems controlling anger - Feelings of dissociation, such as being cut off from oneself, observing oneself from outside the body, or feeling disconnected from one’s surroundings - Self-harming behavior, such as cutting - Recurring thoughts of suicide, threats of suicide, or suicidal behaviors Some people engage in impulsive or reckless behaviors, such as spending sprees, unsafe sex, substance use, dangerous driving, and binge eating. However, if these behaviors happen mostly during times of elevated mood or energy, they may be symptoms of another disorder, for example, a mood disorder, rather than borderline personality disorder. Not everyone with borderline personality disorder experiences all these symptoms. The severity, frequency, and duration of symptoms vary depending on the person. People with borderline personality disorder have a significantly higher rate of self-harm and suicidal thoughts and behavior than the general population. Anyone thinking of harming themselves or attempting suicide needs help right away. If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the [988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline](https://988lifeline.org/) at 988 or chat at [988lifeline.org](https://988lifeline.org/) . In life-threatening situations, call 911. ## What causes borderline personality disorder? Although the exact cause of borderline personality disorder is unknown, research suggests that genetic, physical, environmental, and social factors may increase the risk of developing the disorder. These include the following risk factors. - Family history: People with a close family member (such as a parent or sibling) with the disorder may be at a higher risk of developing borderline personality disorder. - Brain structure and function: Research shows that people with borderline personality disorder may have structural and functional changes in the brain, especially in areas that control impulses and regulate emotions. However, it is unclear whether these brain changes are risk factors for the disorder or a product of having the disorder. - Environmental, cultural, and social factors: Many people with borderline personality disorder report experiencing traumatic life events, such as abuse, neglect, maltreatment, abandonment, or hardship during childhood. Others may have been exposed to unstable, invalidating relationships or frequent interpersonal conflicts. Although these factors may increase the risk for borderline personality disorder, experiencing them doesn’t mean a person will develop the disorder. Likewise, people without these risk factors can have the disorder as well. ## How is borderline personality disorder diagnosed? A licensed mental health professional can diagnose borderline personality disorder based on a thorough discussion of symptoms and personal and family history, including history of mental illness. A medical exam can further rule out other possible causes. Borderline personality disorder is usually diagnosed in late adolescence or early adulthood. Occasionally, a person younger than 18 years will be diagnosed with the disorder if symptoms are severe and last at least a year. ## What other conditions can co-occur with borderline personality disorder? Borderline personality disorder often co-occurs with other mental and physical conditions. These can include mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder, externalizing disorders like conduct problems and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and metabolic-related disorders like diabetes and obesity. These co-occurring conditions can make it harder to diagnose and treat borderline personality disorder, especially if the symptoms overlap. For example, a person with borderline personality disorder may be more likely to experience symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, or eating disorders. Overlaps between borderline personality disorder and other disorders can reflect shared features (for instance, impulsive behaviors are common in borderline personality disorder and a key symptom of bipolar disorder). However, symptoms of borderline personality disorder occur in the absence of significantly elevated mood seen during manic or hypomanic episodes, which is a key feature of bipolar disorder. ## How is borderline personality disorder treated? Evidence-based treatments have been shown to help many people with borderline personality disorder experience fewer and less severe symptoms, improve their functioning, and have a better quality of life. People with the disorder should receive treatment from a licensed mental health professional. Many factors affect how long symptoms take to improve once treatment begins. It is important that people with borderline personality disorder and their loved ones be patient and receive support during treatment. It is also important to not only seek out—but stick with—treatment. Studies funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) indicate that people with borderline personality disorder who do not receive adequate treatment are more likely to develop other chronic illnesses and are less likely to make healthy lifestyle choices. ### Psychotherapy Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is the primary treatment for borderline personality disorder. Most psychotherapy occurs with a licensed, trained mental health professional in one-on-one sessions or with other people in group settings. Group sessions may help people with borderline personality disorder learn to interact more constructively with others and express themselves more effectively. Psychotherapies used to treat borderline personality disorder include the following. - Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): This treatment was developed specifically for people with borderline personality disorder. DBT uses concepts of mindfulness or awareness of one’s present situation and emotional state. DBT also teaches skills to help people control intense emotions, reduce self-destructive behaviors, and improve relationships. - Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This treatment helps people identify and change core beliefs and behaviors that come from inaccurate perceptions of themselves and others and improve interactions with others. CBT can help reduce mood swings, anxiety symptoms, and self-harming or suicidal behaviors. Therapy for caregivers and family members is often helpful. Having a loved one with borderline personality disorder can be stressful, and family members or caregivers may unintentionally act in ways that worsen symptoms. Although more research is needed to determine how much family therapy helps with borderline personality disorder, studies of other mental disorders show that including family members can help support a person’s treatment. Families and caregivers can benefit from therapy by: - Developing skills to understand and support a person with borderline personality disorder - Learning about the needs and obstacles they face in caring for someone with the disorder and developing strategies to overcome them Other forms of psychotherapy may also be used to teach people with borderline personality disorder specific skills or address specific symptoms. Learn more about [psychotherapy](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/psychotherapies). ### Medication The benefits of medication for borderline personality disorder are unclear, and it is not a first-line treatment for the disorder. However, in some cases, a health care provider may recommend medication as an add-on to psychotherapy to treat specific symptoms or co-occurring conditions such as mood swings or depression. Treatment with medication may require coordinated care from more than one provider. Medications can cause side effects in some people. Talk to a provider about what to expect from a medication. Learn more about [mental health medications](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications). Read the most up-to-date information on medications, side effects, and warnings on the [U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website](https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cder/daf/index.cfm) . ## How can I find help? If you have concerns about your mental health, talk to a primary care provider. They can refer you to a qualified mental health professional, such as a psychologist, psychiatrist, or clinical social worker, who can help you figure out next steps. Find [tips for talking with a health care provider](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/tips-for-talking-with-your-health-care-provider) about your mental health. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has [information on borderline personality disorder’s causes, symptoms, and treatment](http://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/borderline-personality-disorder) . You can [learn more about getting help](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help) on the NIMH website. You can also learn about [finding support](https://www.samhsa.gov/find-support) and [locating mental health services](https://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/) in your area on the SAMHSA website. ## How can I help a loved one with borderline personality disorder? Here are some ways to help a friend or family member with borderline personality disorder: - Learn about the disorder to better understand what your loved one is experiencing. - Change can be difficult and frightening for people with borderline personality disorder, but things can improve with time. Offer emotional support, validation, understanding, patience, and encouragement. - Encourage your loved one to ask about family therapy. It is also important that they receive appropriate treatment for any co-occurring mental and physical conditions. - Help your loved one take their medications as prescribed and encourage them to discuss problems or concerns with their health care provider before stopping a medication or making any changes. - Learn about your loved one’s treatment plan and find ways to help support their goals. Be open to learning new ways to offer support that are consistent with treatment goals. - Encourage structure through daily scheduling and prioritizing a healthy lifestyle. - Take comments about possible self-harm or suicide seriously. Encourage prompt contact with a mental health professional or the [988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline](https://988lifeline.org/) by calling or texting 988, if necessary. - Seek counseling for yourself. Choose a different therapist than the one your friend or family member is seeing. ## What are clinical trials and why are they important? Clinical trials are research studies that look at ways to prevent, detect, or treat diseases and conditions. These studies help show whether a treatment is safe and effective in people. Some people join clinical trials to help doctors and researchers learn more about a disease and improve health care. Other people, such as those with health conditions, join to try treatments that aren’t widely available. NIMH supports clinical trials across the United States. Talk to a health care provider about clinical trials and whether one is right for you. Learn more about [participating in clinical trials](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/trials). ## For more information Learn more about [mental health disorders and topics](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health). For information about various health topics, visit the [National Library of Medicine’s MedlinePlus](https://medlineplus.gov/) resource. ## Reprints The information in this publication is in the public domain and may be reused or copied without permission. However, you may not reuse or copy images. Please [cite the National Institute of Mental Health](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/site-info/citing-nimh-publications-and-webpages "Citing NIMH Publications and Webpages") as the source. [Read our copyright policy](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/site-info/policies#part_2718 "Website Policies") to learn more about our guidelines for reusing NIMH content. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Institutes of Health Revised 2025
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