Is Borderline Personality Disorder a Misunderstood Diagnosis?

A borderline personality disorder is a mental health condition that can cause intense mood swings, unstable relationships, and difficulty controlling emotions. People with BPD often experience feelings of emptiness, fear of abandonment, and impulsive behaviors. However, a growing movement argues that the diagnosis may be doing more harm than good.

Is BPD Stigmatized Against Certain Groups?

Critics say BPD is disproportionately applied to women, trauma survivors, and LGBTQIA+ individuals. They argue that the diagnosis reinforces stigma and prejudice rather than offering a clear path to treatment (Aves, 2023).

A Broken System? How BPD Can Affect Treatment

People with BPD often face an uphill battle when seeking mental health care.  The stereotype of BPD as a sign of someone who is "attention-seeking" or "manipulative" can lead to discrimination from mental health professionals.  This can make it challenging to get the treatment needed, including hospitalization during a suicidal crisis.

The Myth of Dependency: Why People with BPD Might Be Denied Care

Aves (2023) gives us some reasons why this may happen:

1. 
   One justification for withholding care is the belief that people with BPD are more likely to become dependent on treatment. 
2. However, critics argue this is a misconception. 
3. They point out that dependence on care can be temporary and doesn't necessarily lead to worse outcomes.  In fact, some say that supportive care can be crucial for recovery.

The Human Cost of Misdiagnosis

The limitations placed on treatment for BPD can have tragic consequences. Studies show a higher risk of suicide among people with BPD, especially after short hospital stays. Critics argue that the mental health system is failing these vulnerable individuals.

What Can Be Done?

The call to action is clear: mental health care for BPD needs an overhaul.  More research is required to understand the condition and develop effective treatments.  Additionally, mental health professionals need to be better trained to recognize and address the stigma surrounding BPD. (aves, 2023) 

 References

• Aves, W. (2023). Dispelling myths and challenging neglect in ‘borderline personality disorder’ healthcare: a lived-experience perspective. Journal of Psychosocial Studies, 16(2), 179-192. Retrieved Jul 7, 2024, from https://doi.org/10.1332/147867323X16881441383633

Beyond Textbooks: The Psychology of Geometry

Ever feel like memorizing geometric theorems is a far cry from real life?  You're right! But here's the surprising psychology behind it:

• Seeing Beyond the Lines: Geometry teaches us valuable lessons about truth. It's not just about perfect shapes but the logical connections we build. Bridging the Gap: Our understanding of the world grows as we connect abstract ideas to authentic experiences. Just like applying geometry with a ruler and compass!➡️ Inspirational Quote: "Geometry teaches us: The truth lies not just in what we see, but in the logical connections we build. Our understanding of the world grows as we bridge the gap between abstract ideas and real-world experience."

Our understanding of the world starts with the familiar, but true knowledge comes from refining our perspective and incorporating new information. We can break free from limitations by seeking a broader frame of reference (Einstein, 1905):

1.  Starts with the familiar: We use rigid objects and landmarks (like Trafalgar Square) to define location.
2. Refining perspective: We move beyond these limitations using tools like poles and measurements to achieve greater precision.
3. Broader frame of reference: The Cartesian coordinate system provides a universal framework for describing location independent of specific landmarks.
4. 
   Breaking free from limitations: We can expand our understanding by seeking new ways to interpret and measure the world around us.
5. This quote translates these scientific principles into a broader psychological message about learning and growth. It highlights the importance of questioning our assumptions, seeking new perspectives, and building a more comprehensive understanding of the world.

Our perspective shapes our reality. What appears true from one viewpoint can be entirely different from another. True understanding comes from considering multiple perspectives and recognizing the role of our frame of reference.

Perspective matters: The falling stone appears to follow different paths depending on the observer's reference point (train vs. ground) (Einstein, 1905):

1. Multiple viewpoints: Understanding the situation requires considering both perspectives.
2. Frame of reference: Our perception is shaped by the framework through which we see the world.
3. Proper understanding: Acknowledging the influence of perspective leads to a more complete experience.
4. This quote translates the scientific concept of reference frames into a broader psychological message about perception and understanding. It highlights the importance of acknowledging our biases and seeking different viewpoints to gain a more complete picture of the world.

Truth can be found from different perspectives, even those that seem contradictory. Challenge your assumptions and seek reference points that keep your understanding constant.

Different perspectives: The law of inertia appears violated when using a reference frame fixed to Earth (stars appear to move in circles) (Einstein, 1905):

1. Challenge assumptions: We must question our initial assumptions about a reference frame being "at rest."
2. Constant understanding: A Galilean reference frame allows the law of inertia to hold true, providing a consistent framework for understanding motion.
3. 
   Seek new reference points: Just like in physics, we can expand our understanding of psychology by seeking new perspectives and frameworks to interpret our experiences.
4. This quote translates the scientific concept into a broader message about the importance of critical thinking and perspective-taking in psychology. It highlights the need to consider different viewpoints and adjust our understanding to find a consistent and accurate interpretation of ourselves and the world around us.

 

 References

🟥Einstein, A. (1905). Relativity: The Special and the General Theory. Hayes Barton Press. https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/L-999-71063

Don't let setbacks stop your journey ‍♀️

Dante thought he was alone on his path to self-improvement, but his guide, Virgil, was still with him (sometimes the support we need is closer than we think!). They may have encountered a roadblock (the steep mountain), but they didn't give up. Here's the inspirational takeaway:

 

• Challenges are inevitable on the road to growth, but you can find a way forward with perseverance and guidance. 
• Dante even meets Manfredi, a historical figure who asks him to share a message with his daughter.

• This reminds us that our actions can have a ripple effect and positively impact others.  ️

References

🟩Alighieri, D. (1909). The Divine Comedy. Hayes Barton Press. https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/L-999-70469

#dante #purgatory #selfimprovement #growthmindset #nevergiveup #inspiration #history

References

1.  🟩Alighieri, D. (1909). The Divine Comedy. Hayes Barton Press. https://bookshelf.vitalsource.com/books/L-999-70469