Understanding BPD: When Believing You're Over Something Isn't the Whole Story
Throughout my journey in therapy, I have come to realize that my coping mechanism was to push my feelings down and pretend everything was fine. I did not learn to process my own emotions, so instead of dealing with them, I simply chose not to. Over the past two years, with the help of learning conflict resolution, I have brought to light memories and emotional pain that I had kept deep inside for so long.
It is important to acknowledge that beneath the surface, there is often more to this condition than meets the eye. This article aims to explore the complexities of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and how one’s belief in moving past something may not reflect the full picture.
Is There Trauma? Yes
Emotional trauma has had a significant impact on my life, driving much of my behavior. However, the instinct that drives certain aspects of BPD is not solely tied to trauma. Instead, it is the activation of a survival mode that operates on a 0-100 scale, often triggered by damage to certain brain regions.
Brain Areas Involved
Amygdala: This region, responsible for processing emotions, is often compromised in individuals with BPD. Prefrontal Cortex: Impaired functioning in this area can lead to difficulties in regulating emotions and making rational decisions. Temporal Lobe: This region is crucial for emotional processing and memory.The Nature of BPD and Coping Mechanisms
One of the hallmark symptoms of BPD is 'splitting,' which manifests as extremes in how one perceives others. If someone is 'Black,' they are seen as completely gone and unattainable. Conversely, if they are 'devalued,' they may be swiftly dismissed. This black-and-white thinking, known as idealization and devaluation, is a significant coping mechanism developed and adapted during childhood.
To be diagnosed with BPD, a person must exhibit 5 out of the 9 symptoms. These symptoms can include:
Intense fear of abandonment. Inconsistent relationships. Ideas of self-harm or suicide. Moods that shift rapidly. Intense and unstable emotions. Trouble managing intense emotions. Dissociation or memory gaps. Chronic feelings of emptiness. Extended or severe anger.Survival Mode: How It Manifests in BPD
Survival mode in BPD is an automatic response to perceived threats, which can trigger intense mood swings and emotional explosions. This response is not something that can be forgotten or ignored. When in this mode, individuals may experience profound emotional distress, leading to destructive behavior such as breaking objects around them.
It is important to note that these extreme mood swings can sometimes be mistaken for Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), which is a far more complex condition characterized by the existence of two or more distinct personality states or identities.
The good news is that with the right therapy and support, individuals with BPD can learn to regulate their emotions and navigate these challenging emotional landscapes. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) are among the most effective treatments for managing BPD symptoms.
Conclusion
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex condition that goes beyond the surface-level belief in moving past something. While there may be underlying trauma, the primary driver is often a survival mechanism rooted in the brain’s amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and temporal lobe. Understanding and addressing these underlying factors is crucial for effective treatment and recovery.
By recognizing the various coping mechanisms and symptoms associated with BPD, individuals and loved ones can work together to develop strategies for managing emotions and building healthier relationships.