If you’ve ever been close to someone with borderline personality disorder (BPD), you know that this mental illness can be immensely confusing, frustrating, and even scary. So, what is borderline personality disorder? BPD is a severe mental disorder that can cause someone with it to struggle with their symptoms. From mood swings to relationship issues, they may not be able to regulate their emotions appropriately. Unfortunately, people with BPD are at a higher risk of substance abuse and addiction. When someone struggles with BPD and addiction, they have a dual diagnosis.
If you or someone you love is struggling to control their mental health and addiction, Northpoint Seattle can help. We have outpatient addiction and mental health treatment programs that provide relief to the people who need it. Don’t put off healing any longer. Get started today by calling 888.483.6031.
What Is BPD?
Borderline personality disorder is a mental illness that causes people to have difficulty regulating their emotions. It’s characterized by mood swings, impulsive behavior, fear of abandonment, and intense relationships. People with BPD often feel like they’re on an emotional roller coaster. They may be happy one minute and angry or depressed the next.
They may also have difficulty controlling their impulses, which can lead to dangerous or risky behaviors. For example, they may impulsively spend money, engage in unsafe sex, or drive recklessly.
People with BPD also often have a fear of abandonment and a need for approval. This can make it very difficult for them to maintain healthy relationships. They may repeatedly try to contact people even after being rejected, or they may become angry and aggressive when someone tries to leave them.
What Causes Borderline Personality Disorder?
The cause of borderline personality disorder is not fully understood, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
People with BPD often have a family history of mental illness, and it is believed that genetic factors may play a role in the development of the disorder.
Environmental factors, such as childhood trauma or abuse, may also contribute to the development of borderline personality disorder.
The Link Between BPD and Addiction
People with BPD are also at a higher risk of developing an addiction. This is often because they may turn to substances as a way to self-medicate their emotions. When someone with borderline personality disorder does develop an addiction, it is vital for them to receive treatment that addresses both conditions.
If they receive treatment that leaves one of their disorders unmanaged, they have a much higher chance of relapse or severe complications from BPD. Some of the risks someone with BPD and addiction may face include:
- Overdosing
- Engaging in risky behaviors
- Relationship problems
- Losing their job
- Legal issues
If you or someone you know has BPD and is struggling with addiction, it’s vital to seek professional help. There are specialized treatment programs that can address both disorders effectively.
Finding Treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder and Addiction
If you or someone you know is struggling with borderline personality disorder and addiction, help is available.
At Northpoint Seattle, we offer a variety of treatment programs that can address both disorders. Our programs are designed to provide comprehensive care to help our clients heal physically, mentally, and emotionally.
We offer outpatient treatment utilizing a variety of other services, such as:
- Individual therapy – Offers personalized treatment and support tailored to the unique needs of the individual.
- Group therapy – Provides a supportive environment where individuals can share experiences and learn from others facing similar challenges.
- Family therapy – Helps to repair and strengthen family relationships by addressing issues collectively and improving communication.
- Medical intervention – Involves the use of medication and other medical treatments to address physical and psychological conditions.
- Relapse prevention – Focuses on identifying and managing triggers to prevent a return to unhealthy or addictive behaviors.
Northpoint Seattle’s recovery program incorporates a range of therapies and services essential for addressing the complex dimensions of addiction and BPD. This approach meticulously tends to the psychological needs of the individual while also considering the broader systemic factors that impact their behavior. By adopting such a holistic strategy, we guarantee consideration of every facet of the individual’s life on their journey to recovery. This not only improves treatment outcomes but also fosters sustained wellness.
Get the Help You Need Today From Northpoint Seattle
If you or someone you love is struggling with borderline personality disorder and addiction, please reach out to us today. We are here to help you on your journey to wellness and recovery. Call 888.483.6031 or use our online contact form to get started.