Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a distressing disorder that is conservatively estimated to affect between 2-10% of the UK population. Although it may have genetic origins, it is widely acknowledged that the catalyst factors of BPD are often rooted in traumatic childhood experiences. These can include real or perceived instances of physical, sexual or mental abuse.

Diagnosable BPD usually emerges after adolescence and it is generally pervasive. Those affected find it incredibly difficult to control their emotions and the resultant emotional instability can lead to instances of severe depression, self-harm, anger, aggression and high-risk behaviour.

BPD sufferers may also have an acute fear of abandonment and may go to great lengths to prevent real or imagined instances of this. Bouts of uncontrollable anger and disruptive or manipulative behaviour are triggered by fear and/or a distorted sense of perception of themselves or others. They are outward signs of the acute emotional torment that exists within the person.

BPD is undeniably an incredibly distressful disorder. It has been unjustly stigmatised by people who have little or no understanding of its complexity. However sustainable levels of recovery from BPD can be achieved with specialist help from Mental Health Services.

Carers of people diagnosed with BPD have the lowest levels of well being of any group in society today. High levels of emotional distress are common among carers. Understandably many carers struggle to cope and they often feel totally isolated, unsupported and helpless.

This forum provides a safe platform for all PD carers to express their own concerns and to share helpful information with each other. In many areas of the UK, the primary source of support and information for carers, is other carers. We all endeavour to help and support each other. This moderated forum is run by carers, for carers. Confidentiality is assured for all. Only Carers are permitted to access the forum