Erin (she/her) is 32 years old, lives in QLD and identifies as a person in recovery from BPD
What was your experience of receiving a diagnosis of BPD?
Getting a diagnosis changed my life. I finally understood what was going on for me.
What would you like people newly experienced with BPD to know?
It can be daunting at first, but it means you can truly learn to understand yourself and explore treatment.
What did clinicians and mental health professionals do well to support you?
Understood the features of BPD and how to apply DBT skills.
What could clinicians and mental health professionals have done better to help you?
Have my experiences validated and taken seriously. Not delayed in diagnosing me.
What kind of psychological treatments worked well for you?
Seeing a mental health professional one-on-one who specialises in BPD with an understanding of DBT.
What other things have supported you to live well?
My dog, peer support, practicing self-care.
Do you have any tips or tricks for managing distress or strong emotions you would like to share?
Applying skills such as taking a moment before making decisions (STOP Skill, Linehan, 2014). Practice self-compassion.
What advice would you give to friends/family supporting someone with a diagnosis of BPD?
Be patient and compassionate. Validate and give space when we’re processing feelings. Sometimes we need comfort instead of advice, so always ask
What are a few things you thought you might not have been able to do but you did anyway?!
Feel as emotionally healthy as I do now. Walked away from situations and relationships that were detrimental to my well-being.