Kulsum International Hospital

Borderline Personality Disorder

On this page
  1. Overview
  2. Symptoms
  3. Causes and risk factors
  4. Diagnosis
  5. Treatment
  6. When to see a doctor

Overview

People with borderline personality disorder feel emotions very intensely and may struggle with relationships and impulsive behaviour. With the right therapy, many people improve significantly.

Symptoms

  • Intense, rapidly changing moods
  • Fear of being abandoned
  • Unstable relationships
  • Impulsive or risky behaviour
  • Feelings of emptiness, anger outbursts and self-harm

Causes and risk factors

It is linked to a mix of genetic factors, brain differences and difficult early life experiences such as trauma or neglect.

Diagnosis

A psychiatrist or psychologist makes the diagnosis after a detailed assessment.

Treatment

Specialised talking therapies, such as dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), are the main treatment. Medicines may help with specific symptoms such as depression or anxiety.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if mood swings and relationship difficulties affect your life. Seek emergency help if you have thoughts of suicide or self-harm.

This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Our doctors

Consultants in the KIH departments that diagnose and treat Borderline Personality Disorder.