Beyond the Borderline

Splitting, a common BPD symptom, causes many of us to act impulsively and self destructively. In this minisode I discuss strategies for managing splitting episodes without ruining relationships, hurting ourselves and compromising our values.

The topic of boundaries is a massive one. I may do several episodes on the topic! In this one I draw on an article by Dr. Arielle Schwartz )”Boundaries and the Self”) to bring you five simple yet not easy practices you can use to cultivate more loving and effective boundaries in your life. Article referenced in the episode: https://drarielleschwartz.com/boundaries-and-the-self-dr-arielle-schwartz/#.Xe01GCWnwlQ

BPD folk often become extremely romantically obsessed with unavailable people. In this episode I describe my current struggle with obsession and what I’m doing to overcome it.

What is hypomania, how is it different to mania and how do you cope with it? This episode of Beyond the Borderline offers answers to these questions.

I discuss why many of us with BPD (and other mental and emotional health problems) struggle with happiness and joy, and examine some coping strategies and tools to help us tolerate these essential emotions.

We all know (or many of us do) that a BPD diagnosis still comes with a fair amount of stigma attached, even from some mental health professionals. In this episode I share some personal reflections of how stigma has played out for me as a person with BPD, as well as some tips and tools I have found useful in combatting stigma. Opinions expressed in this episode are my own.

This episode focuses on a tool from Dialectical Behaviour Therapy called IMPROVE, which is designed to help you navigate stressful situations which cannot be resolved immediately. I think it’s a cool tool because it’s adaptable, easy to use and remember, and fun to get creative with. My top tip: try it out and practice it when you are mildly emotional, as that will help you access it when you’re in full on emotional crisis mode. As always this podcast episode is not a substitute for professional mental health support. More information about IMPROVE: https://www.mindfulnessmuse.com/dialectical-behavior-therapy/improve-the-moment-with-emotion-regulation-strategies

Part 2 of a 3 Part Episode on folks with BPD/EUPD and relationships - from a peer perspective. In this segment I look at a tool called “Defining Your Values” and discuss how it can help us to develop healthier relationships with ourselves and others. #mentalhealth #narcissism #bpd Please note: I am not affiliated with any of the websites listed below: https://www.cmu.edu/career/documents/my-career-path-activities/values-exercise.pdf, https://www.therapistaid.com/therapy-worksheets/values/none, https://www.mindfulnessmuse.com/dialectical-behavior-therapy/identify-your-true-values, https://www.google.co.uk/amp/s/www.psychologytoday.com/gb/tests/personality/values-profile%3famp

A look, a tone, a side eye... those of us with BPD (EUPD), who identify as emotionally sensitive and/or have been affected by trauma can be affected by other peoples’ non verbal communication in ways that may seem extreme and confusing to others, and sometimes to ourselves. In this minisode I explore why we sometimes experience such emotionally explosive reactions and a few ways we can manage distressing interpersonal communications. Please note: if you are in a significant relationship of any kind with someone who uses non verbal communication to shame, bully or demean you, please seek professional help. For more information on Radical Acceptance, as discussed in this episode: https://psychcentral.com/blog/what-it-really-means-to-practice-radical-acceptance/

How to survive a crisis: Crisis survival skills for when you are emotionally overwhelmed. For more information on the workbook mentioned in this episode: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Skills-Training-Handouts-Worksheets-Second/dp/1572307811/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?keywords=marsha+linehan+dbt+book&qid=1558358604&s=gateway&sprefix=marsha+lune&sr=8-2

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