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Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex mental health condition characterized by emotional instability, difficulty in maintaining relationships, and an inconsistent self-image. There are several types of BPD, with unique and shared symptoms. It may be difficult to recognize high-functioning BPD in yourself or your loved one without a special test or a visit to a mental health professional.
In our guide, we have covered the basics of high-functioning borderline personality disorder, the benefits of taking a test to determine this condition, and the symptoms to look out for. You will learn to support an individual with high-functioning BPD and help them get the treatment they need.
What Is High-Functioning Borderline Personality Disorder?
High-functioning borderline personality disorder, also known as quiet BPD or internalizing BPD, is a subtype of BPD that may be invisible to the people around the person who struggles with it. While the typical symptoms of BPD include intense mood swings and unpredictable behavior, a person with high-functioning BPD will internalize their emotions and appear calm and composed in public.
This type of BPD is often misunderstood and left untreated—on the outside, an individual seems to be in control of their feelings, yet they suffer in silence, constantly criticizing themselves, blaming themselves for the actions of other people, and suppressing their emotions. A person with Quiet BPD is more likely to harm themselves and avoid socializing to deal with their feelings on their own.
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How to Recognize High-Functioning BPD Symptoms
Symptom Description People-Pleasing Behavior A person goes out of their way to satisfy others, often to their own detriment Feelings of Guilt and Shame Instead of voicing their emotions, a person internalized them and blames themselves when things go wrong Suppression of Emotions A person decides not to share their feelings with friends and family, preferring to deal with the problem on their own Self-Harming Actions To cope with their internal distress, a person may cut or burn themselves Temporary Mood Swings While a person may appear happy and content one moment, their friends may notice the change in their mood shortly thereafter
It is important to understand that high-functioning BPD symptoms are not the same for every person—some individuals may hide their emotions well and never show their inner turmoil, while others will show several signs from the table above and struggle to conceal their feelings. Pay attention to the behavior of your loved one, especially if their recent actions are out of the ordinary.
Why You Should Take a High-Functioning BPD Test
There may be several benefits to taking a specialized test to determine whether you or someone you care about has high-functioning BPD.
- Understand Your Emotions Better. If you have not been able to figure out why you have been feeling a certain way, and your behavior does not make sense to you, a BPD test may give you the answers you are looking for
- Improve Your Personal and Professional Relationships. When you realize you have a mental health disorder that affects the way you communicate with others, you can come up with strategies to resolve conflicts and explain your behavior to your friends and colleagues
- Empower Your Treatment Provider. Bring the results of your High-Functioning BPD test to the therapist—a mental health professional will use this information to customize your treatment and offer you medication and therapy that suits your needs
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Treatment and Support for High-Functioning BPD
Fortunately, there are multiple treatment options for a person diagnosed with high-functioning BPD.
The best way to treat this mental health disorder is to talk to a licensed therapist. Reach out to a mental health provider, practice the skills your therapist teaches you during the therapy session, and work on your mental health medication.
Your therapist may prescribe you medication to manage the symptoms of high-functioning BPD—for instance, antidepressants can help you regulate your mood. Make sure to only take medication that was prescribed to you and inform your therapist if the medication has no effect or makes you feel worse. Support Network
In addition to regular visits to the therapist’s office, it is crucial to have people around you aware of your diagnosis. Open up to your friends and family members—tell them how they can accommodate you, and ask them to be on the lookout for triggering factors that negatively affect your mental health.
Benefits of Targeted Therapy for High-Functioning BPD
Therapy can offer several advantages to a person struggling with High-Functioning BPD. Give a Name to Your Disorder.
A therapist will be able to diagnose you with BPD and explain what type of BPD you have, as well as other potential mental health issues you suffer from. Customize Your Treatment
Your mental health provider will come up with a unique treatment plan based on your diagnosis and personal circumstances—this may include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Track Your Progress Work with Your Therapist.
It is only natural to bring your concerns to the therapy session—let your therapist know if certain techniques are not working, get advice and guidance from a professional, and adjust your treatment when it is necessary.
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FAQs
What is high-functioning borderline personality disorder?
High-functioning or quiet BPD is a subtype of BPD that is characterized by internal rather than external symptoms—a person appears calm and collected in public while struggling with their emotions internally.
What are the Symptoms of High-Functioning BPD?
The most common symptoms of high-functioning BPD are people-pleasing behavior, feelings of guilt and shame, suppression of emotions, and self-harming actions.
How Do You Test for High-Functioning BPD?
You can either take an online test to determine whether you have high-functioning BPD or visit a mental health professional who will be able to diagnose you.
Is High-Functioning BPD Treatable?
Yes, you can treat high-functioning BPD! Therapy, medication, and a solid support network will help a person manage their symptoms and lead a fulfilling life.
Why Should You Take a High-Functioning BPD Test?
The test will help you understand your emotions, improve your communication with others, and develop a personalized treatment plan together with your therapist.
