Recognizing the Warning Signs of an Untreated Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Partner

As a layperson, it's important to recognize that diagnosing a partner with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is the job of trained professionals such as registered Clinical Psychologists or Psychiatrists. However, as a concerned partner, there are behaviors you can observe that may align with the criteria for BPD, as defined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).

Behaviors indicative of BPD can often manifest as a series of changes in yourself. You might find yourself becoming more introspective about the relationship, noticing patterns that seem inconsistent with the initial high hopes. This could involve perceiving insincerity in what your partner says, noticing unusual or menacing expressions, or feeling a growing sense of unease.

While the partner with untreated BPD might exhibit some of these behaviors, it's crucial to focus on your own well-being. A lasting recommendation for a partner with BPD is to listen to your intuition. If something feels off, it likely is. The best advice is to get out of the relationship and stay away from the potential harm.

The Impact of Untreated vs. Treated BPD

The difference between someone with untreated BPD and someone who is being treated can be significant, primarily concerning the awareness and healthy coping mechanisms that exist within the individual. Factors such as medication can alter the behavior drastically, making it difficult to clearly differentiate between the two.

For someone with untreated BPD, you might observe several common symptoms, such as:

Intense fear of abandonment Unstable relationships Ideas of self-harm or suicide Irritability and unpredictable mood swings

On the other hand, a person with BPD who is actively in therapy and working towards recovery might be more aware of their behavior and take responsibility for their actions. This individual might recognize their outbursts or improper behavior and see it as part of their illness but not necessarily as being entirely responsible for it.

It's essential to understand that the line between untreated and treated BPD isn't always clear-cut. There can be a wide range of behaviors and levels of awareness that vary from one individual to another. Interpersonal relationships and related skills are critical in identifying these differences.

Seeking Help and Healing

When dealing with an untreated BPD partner, it's important to prioritize your emotional and physical well-being. If you find yourself continuing to be in this situation, consider seeking support from professionals such as therapists, support groups, or counseling services.

Therapists specializing in BPD can provide valuable strategies and coping mechanisms to help you manage the relationship. Support groups can offer a sense of community and understanding, as well as practical advice from others who have faced similar challenges.

Remember, the responsibility for your own emotional health and happiness is paramount. Your well-being should always be a priority, regardless of the circumstances of your relationship.

Conclusion

While diagnosing BPD is the task of trained professionals, recognizing the warning signs can help you protect your well-being. Staying away from a relationship with an untreated BPD partner is often the best course of action. Seek the support of professionals and prioritize your emotional health.