When someone with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is experiencing an episode, they may be going through intense emotions, mood swings, impulsive behaviors, and difficulty regulating their emotions. During these times, it is crucial for others to provide support and understanding. Here are some ways you can be supportive to someone with BPD during an episode:
Empathy and validation: Listen to their feelings without judgment, and let them know that their emotions are valid and understandable. Validate their experiences and acknowledge their pain.
Remain calm and patient: During episodes, individuals with BPD may be overwhelmed and agitated. Stay calm and patient, as reacting with frustration or anger can escalate the situation.
Set boundaries: While being empathetic, it's important to maintain your own boundaries and not enable harmful behaviors. Communicate your boundaries clearly and respectfully.
Avoid criticism and blame: Criticizing or blaming them for their emotions or behaviors can be damaging. Remember that BPD is a mental health condition, and the person may struggle with controlling their reactions.
Offer reassurance: Let them know that you are there for them and that they are not alone in their struggles. Reassurance can help alleviate feelings of abandonment and anxiety.
Avoid taking things personally: BPD episodes can be intense and may involve lashing out. Remember that their emotions are often a reflection of their internal struggles and not necessarily a judgment of you.
Encourage professional help: Suggest that they reach out to a mental health professional if they are not already in therapy. Therapies such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can be particularly beneficial for individuals with BPD.
Be consistent and reliable: People with BPD often struggle with a fear of abandonment. Being consistent and reliable in your support can help counteract these fears.
Avoid making promises you can't keep: While consistency is essential, it's also crucial to avoid making promises that you cannot fulfill. Broken promises can be distressing for someone with BPD.
Encourage self-care: Gently encourage them to engage in activities that help promote self-care and relaxation.
It's important to note that supporting someone with BPD can be challenging, and you should also take care of your own well-being. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, consider seeking support from a mental health professional or a support group for caregivers of individuals with BPD.