What Is Borderline Personality Disorder? Know Its Causes & Risk Factors

A borderline personality disorder is a mental health issue that affects how you think and feel about yourself and others, producing difficulties in daily life functioning. It includes concerns with self-esteem, difficulties managing emotions and conduct, and a history of unstable relationships. If you have a borderline personality disorder, you may have a great fear of abandonment or instability, and you may find it difficult to accept being alone. Even if you desire to have meaningful and lasting relationships, improper anger, impulsiveness, and frequent mood swings may push others away. Borderline personality disorder typically manifests itself during early adulthood. The problem appears to be worse in young adulthood and may improve with age.

Don’t give up if you have a borderline personality disorder. Many people with this disease improve with treatment and can learn to live fulfilling lives.

Causes

Borderline personality disorder, like other mental health illnesses, has an unknown etiology. A borderline personality disorder may be associated with, in addition to contextual factors such as a history of child abuse or neglect, the following:

Genetics.

According to twin and family studies, personality disorders may be inherited or closely associated with other mental health diseases among family members.

Abnormalities in the brain.

Some studies have found abnormalities in brain areas related to emotion control, impulsivity, and violence. Furthermore, key brain chemicals that aid in mood regulation, such as serotonin, may not function effectively.

Risk Factors

Some personality development characteristics can raise the likelihood of acquiring borderline personality disorder. These are some examples:

Predisposition is inherited.

If a close relative, such as your father, mother, brother, or sister, has the same or a comparable disorder, you may be at a higher risk.

A difficult childhood.

Many people with the illness report sexual or physical abuse or neglect as children. Some people have lost or been separated from a parent or close caregiver when they were young, or they have had parents or caregivers who struggled with substance abuse or other mental health concerns. Others have experienced aggressive fighting and volatile familial ties.

Credits: Mayo Clinic

Also Read: Symptoms And Treatment Of Borderline Personality Disorder