"High functioning" is a term used to describe individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) who may have developed coping mechanisms or have certain strengths that enable them to function relatively well in some aspects of their lives, such as work or social settings. However, it's important to note that "high functioning" doesn't imply that the person doesn't experience distress or struggle with BPD symptoms in other areas of their life or during challenging situations.
Here are some characteristics and behaviors commonly associated with high-functioning individuals with BPD:
Emotional Intensity: They might experience intense emotions, but they may have learned to manage or suppress these feelings in public settings.
Impulsivity Control: They might have developed better control over impulsive behaviors compared to others with BPD.
Social Skills: High-functioning individuals may be adept at social interactions and can present themselves as charming, outgoing, and friendly.
Professional Success: Some individuals with BPD can excel in their careers due to their ambition, drive, and ability to mask their emotional struggles in the workplace.
Intellectual Capacity: They may possess high intellectual capabilities and can engage in insightful conversations.
Sense of Responsibility: They might take their responsibilities seriously and try to meet expectations, especially in structured environments like work or school.
Relationship Adaptation: In some cases, they can maintain stable relationships, although they may experience interpersonal challenges or struggle with fear of abandonment.
However, it's important to remember that high-functioning individuals with BPD can still experience significant emotional turmoil, difficulties in personal relationships, and internal struggles that may not be apparent to others. Their ability to appear functional in certain situations can make it challenging for them to seek help, as they may feel that their struggles are dismissed or not taken seriously.
In different situations, high-functioning individuals with BPD may exhibit various coping strategies and responses:
In Work Settings: They may excel in their careers due to their motivation, work ethic, and ability to hide their emotional struggles from colleagues.
In Social Gatherings: They might appear confident, friendly, and sociable, as they are skilled at managing their emotions in social situations.
In Intimate Relationships: They might initially appear charming and attentive, but they may struggle with emotional intimacy, fear of rejection, and have difficulties maintaining stable relationships in the long term.
During Stressful Times: When faced with stress or emotional triggers, they may resort to coping mechanisms such as avoidance, dissociation, or other strategies to manage overwhelming feelings.
It's essential to approach individuals with BPD, whether high functioning or not, with empathy, understanding, and support. Seeking professional help, such as therapy or counseling, can be beneficial for managing BPD symptoms and fostering personal growth and emotional well-being.