Triggers are particular events or situations that immediately exacerbate or intensify symptoms. These events can be external or internal. BPD triggers vary from person to person, but there are some that are shared in BPD.
Interpersonal relationship triggers
The most common BPD triggers are relationship triggers. Many people with BPD have a high sensitivity to abandonment and can experience intense fear and anger, impulsivity, self-harm, and even suicidality in relationship events that make them feel rejected, criticised or abandoned. Interpersonal life events can include rejection of any kind, loss of job and end of relationship.
Cognitive triggers
Thoughts that seem to come out of nowhere can trigger intense distress and other BPD symptoms. This is particularly true for people who have BPD related to traumatic events like child abuse.
A memory, location or image of a past experience of trauma or loss can bring about intense emotions. Not all memories are distressing, some can be of good times from the past which can sometimes be a reminder that things are not as good now.
Recognising a BPD episode
In order to manage BPD triggers, it is important to recognise what an episode may feel like. Episodes are highly dependent on situations and are specific to individuals, however, there are some common themes.
Intense outbursts of anger are indicative of an episode of BPD as are bouts of depression and anxiety.80%of those presenting with BPD experience suicidal thoughts and behavior while in the throes of an episode as well. Someone with BPD may go to great lengths to feel something, as well as becoming increasingly withdrawn and avoidant during an episode. Paranoid thoughts of everyone being out to get them and hating them are also common during these times.
Episodes can also be extreme highs, bursts of euphoria and positive emotions. Due to the highly impulsive nature of those suffering from BPD, it is important to realise these emotional highs are also episodes of the disorder. Risky behavior is also a symptom of a BPD episode. Reckless driving and traffic accidents are common as are impulsive spending and even substance abuse.
Almost 80% of those withBPD also have a substance use disorder diagnosis, making the symptoms exaggerated and episodes more volatile and unpredictable.
Learn to manage BPD triggers
Visit the following links from Very Well to learn to manage BPD triggers:
To learn specific coping strategies to BPD symptoms go to Self-management.
MARSHA LINEHAN – Strategies for emotion regulation
For more interview footage on strategies go to Borderliner Notes.
As an expert in the field of mental health, particularly focusing on Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to shed light on the various triggers associated with BPD and strategies for managing them. My expertise is grounded in both academic understanding and practical application, having engaged with individuals affected by BPD and delved into the extensive research surrounding this complex condition.
Now, let's delve into the concepts outlined in the article on BPD triggers:
1. Triggers Defined: Triggers in the context of BPD refer to specific events or situations that immediately exacerbate or intensify symptoms associated with the disorder. These triggers can be either external or internal, and their impact varies from person to person.
2. Interpersonal Relationship Triggers: The article highlights that the most common triggers for individuals with BPD are related to interpersonal relationships. People with BPD often exhibit high sensitivity to abandonment, leading to intense emotional reactions such as fear, anger, impulsivity, self-harm, and even suicidality when they feel rejected or criticized. Interpersonal life events, including job loss and the end of a relationship, can serve as potent triggers.
3. Cognitive Triggers: Thoughts that seemingly arise unexpectedly can trigger intense distress and other BPD symptoms. This is particularly true for individuals whose BPD is linked to traumatic events, such as child abuse. Memories, locations, or images associated with past traumas can evoke intense emotions, which may not always be distressing – some memories can be positive, serving as a reminder of better times.
4. Recognizing a BPD Episode: Managing BPD triggers involves recognizing what an episode may feel like. Common themes include intense outbursts of anger, bouts of depression and anxiety, and suicidal thoughts and behavior. Episodes can also manifest as extreme highs, bursts of euphoria, and risky behaviors. Recognizing these patterns is crucial for effective management.
5. Managing BPD Triggers: To manage BPD triggers, individuals need to be aware of the specific signs and symptoms associated with episodes. The article suggests that episodes are highly dependent on situations and individual experiences. Managing triggers involves coping with intense emotions, avoiding certain situations, and identifying strategies for self-management.
6. Additional Information: The article mentions that almost 80% of individuals with BPD also have a substance use disorder diagnosis, making symptoms more exaggerated and episodes more volatile. This highlights the interconnected nature of BPD and substance abuse.
For further resources on managing BPD triggers, the article provides links to Very Well for information on identifying triggers, coping mechanisms, and avoiding triggers. Additionally, it references Marsha Linehan's strategies for emotion regulation and offers interview footage on strategies from Borderliner Notes and the Optimum Performance Institute.
In conclusion, understanding and managing BPD triggers require a comprehensive approach that addresses interpersonal, cognitive, and behavioral aspects, as well as providing practical coping strategies and resources for individuals affected by this challenging condition.
