Navigating the Terminology: How Individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Respond to Labels

Introduction to Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition. Individuals living with BPD may experience intense emotions, fear of abandonment, and difficulty regulating their emotions. The terminology used to describe BPD can vary significantly, leading to confusion and misinterpretation among those affected and those seeking to support them.

Preference for Terminology

On online platforms such as Quora, the preferred approach is to refer to individuals with BPD as 'person with BPD' or 'pwBPD'. This approach is meant to be more respectful and to reduce stigma. However, not everyone shares the same preference, as evidenced by the personal experiences shared below.

Personal Experiences with BPD Terminology

The UK presents a unique case where BPD is officially known as 'Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder' (EUPD). While some individuals prefer to be referred to as 'pwBPD', others, like the writer, prefer to be called 'pwEUPD'. This preference underscores the importance of understanding one's personal comfort level with different terminologies.

Another common term that can be catching is 'crazy', which, much like 'borderline', carries its own set of connotations. The usage of 'crazy' can range from casual and lighthearted to deeply offensive, depending on the context. Many individuals with mental health conditions, including those with BPD, often refer to themselves and the world as 'crazy' in a humorous way, but the word can still be triggering for others.

Reactions to Labels

Reactions to being labeled with a condition such as BPD can vary greatly depending on the individual. Some may be entirely comfortable with terms like 'borderline' or be disassociated with terms like 'crazy'. However, others may feel a sense of discomfort or even anger when referred to in certain ways.

Experiences from Different Perspectives

One individual shared the term 'diosomaniac' as an example of a label they would not prefer, along with other offensive or derogatory terms such as 'lunatic' or 'loco in de basin'. These terms are not only unhelpful but also deeply hurtful, underscoring the importance of respectful and empathetic language in discussions about mental health conditions.

Another Perspective

Another individual with a quiet form of BPD indicated that they had very little awareness of their condition and spoke euphemistically about their emotional struggles. This highlights the spectrum of experiences and awareness levels among individuals with BPD, making it even more crucial to approach each case with individual understanding and respect.

Understanding and respecting individual preferences and experiences can go a long way in fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals living with BPD. Terminology matters, and caregivers, friends, and family members should always approach the topic with sensitivity and an open heart.

Conclusion

Terms and labels can significantly impact individuals with BPD. While some may find certain labels acceptable or even humorous, others may find them offensive or stigmatizing. It is crucial to respect individual preferences and strive for a more compassionate and understanding approach in our language and interactions with those living with BPD.