Borderline Personality Disorder: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), also known as emotionally unstable personality disorder (EUPD) is a complex mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and relates to others. It is more common than many realise, with millions of people worldwide experiencing the intense emotions, unstable relationships, and deep inner struggles that come with it. For those living with personality disorders, everyday life can feel overwhelming, with sudden mood changes, fears of abandonment, and painful cycles of conflict or self-criticism. Relationships often become sources of distress rather than support, adding to the sense of isolation.
At Khiron Clinics, we recognise not just the clinical aspects of borderline personality disorder, but also the very real emotional pain behind the diagnosis. Our trauma-focused therapies are designed to support long-term healing, helping individuals build stability, resilience, and hope for a different future.
Understanding Trauma’s Role and Our Treatment Approach
At Khiron Clinics, we understand that Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), or EUPD, is one of the most complex mental disorders, often beginning in early adulthood. It is marked by intense emotions, unstable relationships, and severe symptoms linked to unresolved trauma.
Unlike traditional mental health clinics that focus on managing diagnoses, our approach prioritizes uncovering and healing the underlying causes of emotional pain. This method ensures not only relief but also long-term recovery from BPD symptoms and resilience.
At Khiron clinics, we see mental health issues as manifestations of unresolved trauma that leads to a dysregulated nervous system.
What Is Borderline Personality Disorder?
BPD is a complex mental health condition characterised by intense emotional instability, fear of abandonment, difficulty maintaining relationships, intense anger, and impulsive behaviors. While the symptoms of BPD can feel overwhelming, they are often linked to unprocessed trauma, adverse childhood experiences, or chronic stress. At our mental health clinic, we view these symptoms as the mind and body’s response to unresolved pain rather than merely a “disorder” to be managed.
Signs and Symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder
People often search for clear signs to understand whether they, or someone they care about, may be experiencing Borderline Personality Disorder. While every person’s journey looks different, there are common symptoms that tend to appear:
- Emotional instability – sudden and intense shifts in mood that can feel overwhelming.
- Intense fear of abandonment – extreme sensitivity to perceived rejection or loss, even in small situations.
- Unstable relationships – alternating between idealising and devaluing loved ones, leading to cycles of conflict and closeness.
- Impulsive or risky behaviours – impulsive behaviors such as overspending, unsafe sex, reckless driving, or substance use.
- Chronic feelings of emptiness – a persistent sense of inner void or disconnection.
- Intense anger or mood swings – difficulty managing frustration or rage.
- Self-harm or suicidal thoughts – using harmful behaviours to cope with overwhelming feelings, or showing suicidal behavior.
Recognising these signs is an important step toward seeking support and beginning the journey of healing.
Impact of BPD on Daily Life
Borderline Personality Disorder doesn’t just cause intense emotions, it influences nearly every aspect of daily living. Relationships can feel unstable or exhausting, with constant fears of abandonment often pushing loved ones away. At work, the emotional intensity of BPD may cause difficulties maintaining employment, managing stress, or navigating conflicts with colleagues. Many people also struggle with low self-image, shifting between confidence and deep self-criticism.
To cope with overwhelming feelings and mood swings, some may turn to substances, self-harm, or other impulsive behaviours that bring temporary relief but long-term harm. Physical health can also be affected, as chronic stress and emotional dysregulation take a toll on the body.
These challenges can leave individuals feeling misunderstood, isolated, or trapped in painful cycles. Yet with the right trauma-informed treatment and support, it is possible to build stability, nurture healthier relationships, and create a more hopeful and balanced life.
What Causes BPD?
Borderline Personality Disorder is often rooted in a combination of genetic, biological, and environmental risk factors. If family members have a history of a mood disorder, or family history of substance use disorders, or other personality disorders can also be risk factors. Experiences such as sexual abuse, neglect, or chronic feelings of abandonment in childhood play a significant role in developing Borderline Personality Disorder in early adulthood.
“Trauma is not what happens to you, but what happens inside you as a result of what happens to you.”
Risk Factors and Co-Occurring Conditions
Borderline Personality Disorder often develops from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Research shows that experiences such as childhood trauma, neglect, family instability, or inconsistent caregiving can significantly increase the likelihood of developing BPD. There may also be a genetic predisposition for a mood disorder, with traits such as heightened emotional sensitivity and suicidal behavior running in families, although it is difficult to identify whether environmental factors such as upbringing, or genetics are the cause.
BPD rarely exists in isolation. Many individuals also struggle with other mental health conditions and specific symptoms such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), self harming behaviors, depression, anxiety, or eating disorders. These overlapping mental health problems can intensify symptoms and make daily life even more challenging.
Because of this, effective support must look beyond surface-level symptoms. At Khiron Clinics, our integrated treatment plans address both BPD and co-occurring conditions, ensuring clients receive holistic care and the best chance at long-term recovery.
How Is Borderline Personality Disorder Diagnosed?
Diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder is usually made through a comprehensive clinical assessment for an accurate diagnosis. This often involves a detailed interview with a mental health professional, exploring patterns of emotions, behaviours, and relationships. Clinicians may also use established diagnostic frameworks such as the DSM-5 or ICD-10 criteria, which outline the specific symptoms required for a BPD diagnosis.
While formal diagnosis can provide clarity, it is not always the starting point for recovery. At Khiron Clinics, we believe that you don’t need a diagnosis to begin treatment. Instead, we focus on your lived experience and the underlying trauma driving distress, creating a personalised path toward stability and healing.
How Khiron Clinics Treats the Root Cause of BPD
Our trauma-informed mental health clinic offers a holistic treatment model that goes beyond surface-level symptom management. We provide:
- Trauma-Informed Therapy
- Our expert-trained mental health professionals, are skilled in cutting-edge modalities such as Somatic Experiencing, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems (IFS). These methods help reduce self-harming behaviors, suicidal behavior, and patterns such as binge eating, substance abuse, or dangerous driving that can emerge when people with Borderline Personality Disorder struggle with intense negative emotions.
- Initial Consultation
- Each client begins with an initial consultation with a senior therapist to identify the unique factors contributing to their emotional and mental health challenges.
- Integrated Treatment Plans
- We develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs, incorporating psychotherapy, body-based interventions, emotional support, and holistic care.
- Residential and Outpatient Options
- Our residential treatment program in Wantage, Oxfordshire, provides a safe and supportive environment for intensive healing. Outpatient options are also available for clients requiring more flexibility.
Living With and Recovering From BPD
Living with Borderline Personality Disorder can feel overwhelming, but recovery is possible with the right support. Practical tools such as coping skills, grounding techniques, and emotional regulation strategies can help individuals manage intense feelings in healthier ways. Support from family and loved ones also plays a vital role, as understanding and involvement can strengthen relationships and reduce feelings of isolation.
Recovery doesn’t mean eliminating every symptom over night, it means gradually building stability, self-compassion, and resilience. Many people with BPD go on to create fulfilling relationships, meaningful careers, and a stronger sense of identity.At Khiron Clinics, our trauma-focused treatment helps clients move from coping to truly living. By addressing the root causes of distress and building long-term resilience, we support individuals in creating lives defined not by fear and instability, but by balance, connection, and hope.
Long-Term Healing Through Trauma Treatment
At Khiron Clinics, we believe that lasting recovery from BPD requires addressing the root causes of emotional suffering. Our trauma-informed approach enables clients to move beyond coping mechanisms and achieve profound, sustainable healing. This not only alleviates the symptoms of BPD but also empowers individuals to lead fulfilling lives.
If you or a loved one is struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder and are seeking a mental health clinic that treats trauma at its core, contact Khiron Clinics today. Let’s take the first step toward lasting healing together.
We work with you to understand your symptoms and help find the issues at the root of your experience, which are usually linked to unresolved trauma. Through finding the source of the issue, we are better equipped to help you on your path to recovery.
Why Choose Khiron Clinics for BPD and Trauma Treatment?
- Expert-Led Team: Our clinicians are trained and supervised by world-renowned trauma experts such as Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, Dr. Janina Fisher, Dr. Stephen Porges, and Deb Dana.
- Holistic Focus: We address physical, emotional, and relational aspects of trauma, ensuring comprehensive healing.
- Supportive Environment: Our mental health clinic offers a compassionate and non-judgmental space where clients feel seen and understood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Trauma-informed care is an approach that acknowledges the impact of trauma on an individual’s life and prioritizes safety, empowerment, and healing in all aspects of treatment.
No, Khiron Clinics does not focus on diagnoses. Instead, we address the root causes of emotional and mental health challenges to promote lasting recovery.
The initial consultation with a senior therapist will explore your personal history, experiences, and challenges to identify the unique factors contributing to your mental health concerns and guide the development of your treatment plan.
Our therapists are trained in a range of trauma-focused therapies, including Somatic Experiencing, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), and can offer support for other mental health issues and substance use disorders alongside borderline personality disorder experiences.
Yes, we offer outpatient care options alongside our residential program, allowing for flexibility based on individual needs. We can help you find the most appropriate treatment.
Contact us via phone or email to discuss your needs and begin your journey toward healing with Khiron Clinics. Download our brochure here.
Yes, many BPD patients also live with other disorders such as substance abuse, eating disorders, or anxiety disorders. Our integrated care ensures both BPD and other mental health conditions are treated with equal focus.
No. While BPD and bipolar disorder both involve intense mood swings and emotional instability, they are distinct conditions. Bipolar disorder is characterised by episodes of depression and mania/hypomania that last days or weeks. BPD, on the other hand, involves rapid mood shifts often triggered by interpersonal stress, alongside difficulties with self-image and relationships.
There is currently no medication that cures borderline personality disorder. However, medication may help manage specific symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or mood swings. The most effective long-term treatment is psychotherapy, especially trauma-informed approaches.
There is no clinical difference. Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD) are two names for the same condition. BPD is more commonly used in the U.S. and Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM-5), while EUPD is used in the U.K. and ICD-10.
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