Treatment Options for BPD
Borderline Personality Disorder is challenging, but very treatable, especially when care is consistent and personalised. People with BPD often see significant improvements in their symptoms, relationships, and emotional stability with the right treatment approach. Learn more about the treatment options for bpd below.
1. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
- Considered the gold standard for BPD treatment.
- Combines cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with mindfulness and emotional regulation.
- Focuses on:
- Reducing self-harm and suicidal behaviours
- Managing intense emotions
- Improving relationships
- Building distress tolerance
- Often delivered in both group and individual formats
2. Mentalisation-Based Therapy (MBT)
- Helps patients understand their own and others’ mental states.
- Reduces interpersonal conflict and emotional misinterpretation.
- Especially useful for people with intense relationship difficulties.
3. Schema Therapy
- Aims to change deep-rooted negative beliefs formed in childhood.
- Helps individuals break free from destructive life patterns and self-image problems.
4. Medication
- No medication specifically treats BPD, but some drugs may help manage:
- Depression (SSRIs like fluoxetine)
- Mood swings (mood stabilisers like lamotrigine)
- Anxiety (buspirone or short-term benzodiazepines)
- Impulsivity or aggression (low-dose antipsychotics like quetiapine)
5. Crisis and hospital support
- Short-term hospitalisation may be necessary during suicidal crises or psychotic episodes.
- South Africa’s public hospitals offer psychiatric wards, though space may be limited.
6. Lifestyle and support
- Mindfulness, exercise, and sleep routines support emotional regulation.
- Support groups provide connection and shared tools.
- Family education improves understanding and reduces conflict.
In South Africa, DBT and MBT are offered in some private mental health facilities, while public services may focus on crisis management and referrals. NGOs like SADAG and Akeso Clinics offer tools and resources for those in need.
Treatment Options for BPD
With structured, compassionate support, people with BPD can go on to lead balanced, fulfilling lives.
👉 [Next: Living with BPD – Support and Recovery]
