The teenage years are never easy; in fact, this can be the hardest stage in life for many. As children mature, it is not uncommon for them to harbor a mixture of emotions. Teens struggle with self-image among other issues. With hormones playing an ever-increasing role at this stage, teens may display erratic behavior or react at emotional extremes when dealing with daily issues. These confused feelings may lead to depression and even anxiety. In extreme cases, teens begin harming themselves and may become more at risk for suicide. All the above are symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), which is very common among teens.
Is there help for teens with Borderline Personality Disorder?
Children who are at risk do not have to grapple with this problem alone; there is help available. One of the leading treatments for BPD is Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). This therapy was initially developed to help people who were chronically suicidal and were suffering from BPD. This groundbreaking therapy seeks to address a host of issues that a patient might have. It consists of individual therapy together with group training. Here, teens will be taught many lessons including mindfulness, emotional regulation, the ability to handle difficult situations, as well as interpersonal skills.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy also has an element of motivation. This is where teens are trained how to create and maintain motivation to help them to see that life is very much worth living. There are many other components to this therapy, and to this end, many at-risk children find the help they need. This therapy has also been effective at helping teens to deal with drug and alcohol abuse. Eating disorders are also very rampant with teens experiencing BPD. From purging to binge eating, these are serious issues that can be addressed. Also, teens with BPD may have issues with relationships. From extreme love to extreme hate, many will not experience long healthy relationships.
DBT is, therefore, a helpful approach to tackle many of these types of challenges. This therapy was developed in the late 70s by Dr. Marsha Linehan. As a Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Washington, Dr. Linehan’s therapy set a new standard where management and treatment of BPD are concerned. Read more here.
At Casa Pacifica, DBT is one of the therapeutic approaches taken to help the children that come to us who are experiencing similar concerns. Our qualified therapists can recommend and implement programs designed to help your child achieve positive results. Let us help you – reach out to us today and we will help get your teen started on the road to full recovery.