- Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
- Interviews
tlm1020's interview
How did all start?
I was born. I have a family history of mental illness ranging from Bipolar to depression to social anxiety.
Do you already have a diagnosis? How long did it take you to get it?
I was formally diagnosed in November 2005. I had symptoms since I hit puberty but they didn't know what it was.
What has been the most useful thing for you so far?
Realizing that I need to work on myself outside of therapy as well as in therapy. One hour once a week will not help you make changes if you're not willing to do the work the rest of the time.
What have been your biggest difficulties?
Knowing what is an acceptable reaction. A small irritation would usually have a huge reaction and it wasn't the proper reactions.
How has your social and family environment reacted? Have your social or family relationships changed?
Since I've been doing a lot of work on myself, my family relationships have improved. I am more likely to talk things out to come to a good outcome instead of raging and losing my temper.
What things have you stopped doing?
I stopped being outraged over everything. Instead I let myself be upset about things that actually matter.
What do you think about the future?
I'm actually looking forward to it.
So far, which years have been the best years in your life? What have you done during them?
Right now. I try to make every day better than yesterday.
What would you like to do if you didn’t have your condition?
I honestly don't know. I've had this condition my entire life so I don't know anything differently.
If you had to describe your life in a sentence, what would it be?
Learning to be a better person despite living the consequences of someone else's decisions.
Finally, what advice would you give to a person in a similar situation?
This is not a death sentence. You can get through this if you're willing to work, be kind, patient and gentle with yourself.
