Interpersonal relationships, whether platonic or romantic, can present a unique set of challenges to people living with BPD, and their family, friends or partners.

The symptoms associated with borderline personality disorder can lead to persistent fluctuations in emotions, characterized by their intensity and overwhelming nature. Consequently, individuals with BPD often experience tumultuous relationships, whether they be romantic or platonic in nature. The impact of BPD on relationships can manifest in various ways.

Intense positive feelings

Individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) often exhibit remarkable levels of care, affection, and compassion. Their genuine desire to spend quality time with others, however, may inadvertently cause the recipient to feel suffocated or overwhelmed.

Abandonment or rejection

Individuals who have been diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) frequently encounter difficulties associated with feelings of abandonment and may possess intense anxieties about being abandoned or rejected by others. They may harbor a deep-seated fear of rejection and abandonment, all the while seeking meaningful connections and emotional closeness with those around them.

Abrupt shifts in viewpoints

The individual with BPD might encounter sudden changes in their emotional state, leading them to feel overwhelmed and anxious about forming close relationships. As a result, they may have a tendency to create distance between themselves and others.

BPD can cause a constant switch between seeking love, affection or attention and sudden withdrawal or isolation. These emotional switches can be difficult to handle. Sometimes they may lead to uncomfortable public scenes or put the person at risk of harm.

Stability

For the individual with BPD, stability is essential. Living with overwhelming emotions or a disturbed sense of self can leave the individual feeling untethered. Being provided with stability in a relationship can have a positive effect on the emotional sensitives people with BPD experience.

With the right treatment and support, people with BPD can establish successful, long-term and thriving relationships.