Preface

_{From: Borderline personality disorder: An information guide for families. (© 2009 CAMH)}

This booklet is for those who have someone in their lives with a borderline personality disorder (BPD). We hope it will encourage you and your affected family member or friend to seek the information and support you need to understand borderline personality disorder and to begin the journey of recovery.

Because the booklet is written for individuals and families in many different circumstances and communities, it may not address everyone’s needs or questions. You will see family referred to many times. When we say family, we mean both family and friends. You can use your own definition and include whomever you want as family and friends.

The first two sections provide information about BPD, including how it feels to have BPD, the stigma associated with BPD, the prevalence of BPD, its symptoms, diagnosis, causes and other disorders that co-occur with BPD. The third section provides information about treatment of BPD, the fourth section describes how to support someone with BPD and the fifth section discusses self-care strategies for partners and family members of those with BPD. The sixth section talks about the importance of hope in the recovery process.

At the end of this booklet on p. 43, you will find a list of helpful resources including contact information for finding treatment, and print and web-based resources. You will also find a glossary and a family crisis information sheet for you to use.

• Print