Of the 10 personality disorders in the DSM, Borderline Personality Disorder is likely one of the better known conditions. One of the Cluster B disorders (B stands for 'bad' and is marked by certain traits including heightened emotionality), BPD is thought to have a prevalence in the general population between 1% and 6% depending on the study, and accounts for about 20% of psychiatric inpatients, 10% of psychiatric outpatients, and 6% of patients in primary care settings (DSM 5).
While the DSM V has clear diagnostic criteria, it's important to be aware that patients may present with different combinations of symptoms and associated features, and quite possibly have other psychiatric comorbidities. So, to get some basic understanding and detailed insight into BPD and the variety of people it can affect, take some time to watch the documentary Back From The Edge. Not only does the film feature mental health professionals who support and treat these patients, but viewers also get the chance to hear from those who have been diagnosed with BPD as they share their personal experiences with the illness.
While the DSM V has clear diagnostic criteria, it's important to be aware that patients may present with different combinations of symptoms and associated features, and quite possibly have other psychiatric comorbidities. So, to get some basic understanding and detailed insight into BPD and the variety of people it can affect, take some time to watch the documentary Back From The Edge. Not only does the film feature mental health professionals who support and treat these patients, but viewers also get the chance to hear from those who have been diagnosed with BPD as they share their personal experiences with the illness.
For more information on BPD, please visit:
- Centre for Addiction & Mental Health - Borderline Personality Disorder
- DSM V - Personality Disorders
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