Understanding BPD
One thing that distinguishes borderline personality disorder from the other areas is that BPD is a personality-disorder.
One thing that distinguishes borderline personality disorder from the other areas is that BPD is a personality-disorder.
As humans, we are wired for connection. As infants, we relied on our caregiver(s) to provide safety, stability, and love. Through attachment, children and adults develop trust and learn to regulate emotions. As children, we learned to socialize through interactions with siblings and other children.
Can you think of a recent conversation in which you felt judged, bullied, blamed, or criticized by your partner? Do you find yourself becoming defensive within communication or reacting in anger during difficult conversations, only to feel more disconnected and dissatisfied in your relationship(s)?
CARE is “outside the box” to eliminate boxes as gender does not fit neatly into an either-or checkbox.
Just like we can hold onto physical items that clutter our life, so can we hold onto relationship clutter.
“We are powerful because we have survived, and that it what it is all about- survival and growth.” –Audre Lorde.
Tough conversations often create discomfort and can lead to avoidance. There may be reluctance to speak up due to fear of consequences. What will people think? How do I manage my own anxiety? Consider for a moment that remaining silent during tough conversations also communicates a message. What message do you wish to convey?
As we look toward 2021, many of us may take time to reflect on resolutions and intentions to carry into the upcoming new year. For those who struggle with disordered eating and poor body image, this time of year may be especially challenging due to the constant rhetoric and messages around programs designed for weight loss. If you are in recovery from an eating disorder, diet culture’s strong presence during this time may activate parts of you to feel ambivalent around your recovery goals. This is normal and this does not mean you are failing for having those thoughts. You are not alone!
Violence within intimate relationships is on the rise. Increased stress + staying at home + social isolation has help create a “perfect storm” for violence within the home. Being familiar with the types of abuse that can occur within relationships is an important step to recognize “red flags” to help yourself and/ or others who are experiencing or have experienced abuse during quarantine.
As a follow up to the blog on CARE-ing for a Friend/ Family Member who is Misusing Drugs or Alcohol, I’d like to share some practical tools customized for parents and partners, the first tool being a 20minuteguide. It includes motivational techniques for behavioral change, worksheets, and examples of how to apply and practice CRAFT, or Community Reinforcement and Family Training strategies with your loved one