The Unspoken Bias: Challenging Mental Health Professionals to Destigmatize BPD
Recently, I've observed a concerning trend within the mental health profession: the stigmatization of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Despite growing awareness and acceptance of mental health conditions among the general public, fueled in part by candid conversations on platforms like TikTok, it seems that some mental health professionals are lagging behind. It's time to address this issue head-on and advocate for a change in our approach to BPD.
Borderline Personality Disorder Diagnosis Stigma
BPD is a complex mental health condition characterized by difficulties in emotion regulation, interpersonal relationships, self-image, and behavior. Historically, it has been met with negative attitudes and even avoidance by clinicians, who may be reluctant to "label" a client with this diagnosis. This hesitancy, however, can be more detrimental than protective.
The Power of a BPD Diagnosis
A diagnosis is not just a label; it's a gateway to understanding, treatment, and community. When clients come to us suspecting they may have BPD, they seek not only validation, but also a path to betterment. By withholding a diagnosis due to stigma, we inadvertently perpetuate a cycle of shame and confusion. Clients who identify with the traits of BPD deserve to receive accurate information and appropriate care.
The Shift in Public Perception of BPD
Social media has played a pivotal role in demystifying BPD. Individuals sharing their lived experiences have fostered a more empathetic understanding of the BPD experience. This openness has encouraged many to seek professional help, only to find resistance where they expected support. As mental health professionals, we must align with this trend toward openness and acceptance.
The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis of BPD
An accurate diagnosis of BPD can be life-changing. It offers clients a framework to understand their experiences and access evidence-based treatments like Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) that have been proven effective. Furthermore, a shared diagnosis can create a sense of belonging, providing comfort in the knowledge that one is not alone in their struggles.
Breaking the BPD Stigma Barrier in Healthcare
Recently, I have spoken to several different clinicians who have told me that they will not give a client a diagnosis of BPD. These clinicians were all able to recognize symptoms of BPD and admit that some of their clients do, indeed, have BPD, yet they will not actually provide this diagnosis. We must ask ourselves, what message are we sending when we shy away from diagnosing BPD? Are we not, in effect, validating the stigma we claim to oppose? It is our professional duty to provide the best care possible, and that includes being forthright with our diagnoses.
Reducing BPD Stigma in Clinical Practice
To move forward, we must embrace continual education, confront our biases, and foster a supportive community within our field. Let's advocate for the de-stigmatization of BPD in all professional settings, ensuring that clients receive the respect, understanding, and treatment they deserve.
In conclusion, the stigma surrounding BPD within the mental health profession is a barrier to effective care. It is imperative that we, as clinicians, lead by example, embracing a non-judgmental, compassionate approach to all mental health conditions. By doing so, we not only serve our clients with integrity but also contribute to a broader cultural shift towards acceptance and support for those living with BPD. Let us commit to being part of the solution, working together to dismantle the stigma and provide a beacon of hope for those seeking our help.
How to Get Tested for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): BPD Testing Near Me
If you are someone who suspects you may have BPD, Zephyr Care is here to help! We provide comprehensive testing for mental health concerns, including psychological evaluations for BPD. Our evaluations can also look for co-occurring diagnoses including autism, ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma disorders such as PTSD, etc. We provide mental health evaluations in Nashville for those local to us, as well as virtual evaluations for people in most states. Contact us today!
Author: Heather Joppich, PhD
Dr. Joppich is a Licensed Psychologist and owner of Zephyr Care Mental Health. She specializes in neurodiversity-affirming assessments for autism, ADHD, and mental health concerns.
