Understanding Splitting in Borderline Personality Disorder
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex mental health condition that affects approximately 1.6% of the population. It is characterized by intense emotions, unstable relationships, and impulsive behaviors. One of the most challenging symptoms of BPD is splitting, which can cause significant distress and difficulty in daily life.
In this article, we will explore what splitting is, how it manifests in individuals with BPD, and what resources are available for those struggling with this symptom.
What is Splitting?
Splitting, also known as black-and-white thinking, is a defense mechanism that individuals with BPD use to cope with intense emotions and unstable relationships. It is a way of seeing the world in extremes, where things are either all good or all bad, with no middle ground.
For someone with BPD, splitting can occur in any aspect of their life, from relationships to self-image to their perception of the world. It can also manifest in their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
How Does Splitting Manifest in BPD?
In relationships, splitting can cause individuals with BPD to idealize someone one moment and then devalue them the next. This can lead to intense and unstable relationships, as the person with BPD may struggle to maintain a consistent view of their partner.
In terms of self-image, splitting can cause individuals with BPD to see themselves as either perfect or completely flawed. They may struggle with self-esteem and have difficulty finding a sense of self.
In their perception of the world, individuals with BPD may see things as either all good or all bad. This can lead to impulsive behaviors, as they may act on their intense emotions without considering the consequences.
The Impact of Splitting on Daily Life
Splitting can have a significant impact on daily life for individuals with BPD. It can cause intense emotional distress, difficulty maintaining relationships, and impulsive behaviors that can be harmful to themselves and others.
For example, if someone with BPD is in a relationship and they suddenly split on their partner, they may become angry, hostile, or even end the relationship. This can lead to a cycle of unstable relationships and feelings of loneliness and isolation.
In terms of self-image, splitting can cause individuals with BPD to have a distorted view of themselves. They may struggle with self-esteem and have difficulty making decisions or setting boundaries.
Coping with Splitting
While splitting can be a challenging symptom of BPD, there are ways to cope with it and manage its impact on daily life.
Therapy
Therapy is an essential tool for individuals with BPD, and it can be particularly helpful in managing splitting. A therapist can help someone with BPD identify when they are splitting and work on developing more balanced thinking patterns.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) are two types of therapy that have been shown to be effective in treating BPD and its symptoms, including splitting.
Resources for Individuals with BPD and Loved Ones
If you or someone you know is struggling with BPD and its symptoms, there are resources available to help.
Support Groups
These groups provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences and learn from others who are going through similar struggles.
Online Resources
There are also many online resources available for individuals with BPD and their friends, family members and significant others.
Some reputable websites with information on BPD include the National Education Alliance for Borderline Personality Disorder (NEA-BPD) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
Books
A great resource that goes into more detail about splitting is Stop Walking on Eggshells, a book geared towards helping loved ones of individuals with BPD.
Conclusion
Splitting is a challenging symptom of BPD that can cause significant distress and difficulty in daily life. However, with the right tools and resources, individuals with BPD can learn to manage this symptom and improve their overall well-being.