psychiatric disorders
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)
Introduction
Borderline personality disorder is characterized by a pervasive pattern of instability and hypersensitivity in interpersonal relationships, instability in self-image, extreme mood fluctuations, and impulsivity. Diagnosis is by clinical criteria. Treatment is with psychotherapy and sometimes medications. (See also Overview of Personality Disorders .) Patients with borderline personality disorder have an intolerance of being alone; they make frantic efforts to avoid abandonment and generate crises, such as making Suicidal Behavior in a way that invites rescue and caregiving by others. Reported prevalence of borderline personality disorder in the United States varies. The estimated median prevalence is 2.7% but may be as high as 5.9% ( General references ). In patients being treated as inpatients for mental health disorders, prevalence is about 20%. About 75% of patients diagnosed with this disorder are female, but in the general US population, the ratio of male to female is 1:1. are common. Patients often have Overview of Mood Disorders , 