Talking therapies
Specialist talking therapies are the main treatment for BPD. They usually last a year or more.
- Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT) teaches skills to manage intense emotions, cope with distress, improve relationships and reduce self-harm. It usually combines individual sessions with group skills training.
- Mentalisation-based therapy (MBT) helps you understand your own and other people's thoughts and feelings, especially in relationships.
- Other therapies, such as schema therapy or therapeutic communities, are offered in some areas.
Your care plan
Your care team should work with you on a care plan, including a crisis plan that says:
- what your warning signs are
- what helps you cope
- who to contact, day and night
Medicines
NICE says medicine should not be used to treat BPD itself, because there is little evidence it helps. You may be offered medicine for other conditions, such as depression or anxiety, or a short course in a crisis.
Getting through a crisis
If you are in crisis, follow your crisis plan, contact your care team, call NHS 111 and choose the mental health option, or call Samaritans on 116 123. Call 999 if you are in danger.
Next, read about living well with BPD.
Common questions
Is there medicine for BPD?
There is no medicine for BPD itself, and NICE advises against using medicine to treat BPD directly. You may be offered medicine for other conditions you have, such as depression, or for a short time in a crisis.
Sources we used
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