Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition characterized by:

• Intense emotions
• Unstable relationships
• Impulsive behavior

It can affect people of all ages but can become apparent during the teenage years. There is less known about BPD in teens than in adults, and there has been controversy over whether it’s appropriate to diagnose a teen with BPD. It’s estimated that up to 3% of teens experience BPD, according to the National Library of Medicine. It’s important to note that many teens may experience some symptoms of BPD during their teenage years, as emotional instability and impulsivity can be common during this stage of life. 

Teens are going through a lot of changes, and it’s natural for teens to experience emotional ups and downs. However, if you’re concerned about your teen’s well-being, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional for guidance. Early intervention can make a significant difference in managing this disorder and improving their quality of life. 

What is splitting in borderline personality disorder?

Splitting is a pattern of thinking that can be seen in teens experiencing BPD. It’s like they see the world only in black and white. One minute, someone may seem amazing, and the next, they’re the worst. 

Teens experiencing BPD may use splitting to help them cope with their strong emotions. It’s a way they can try to make sense of things when their feelings are all over the place. Splitting looks like:

• Idealizing — Thinking someone is perfect and amazing
• Devaluing — Suddenly seeing someone as terrible and worthless

This extreme swing in thinking can make relationships feel really unstable and can lead to a lot of relationship drama. 

What are signs of splitting in teens experiencing BPD?

Splitting can be a challenging symptom for teens experiencing BPD. Signs that splitting may be happening include:

• Rapidly changing opinions — Your teen may quickly go from loving someone or something to hating them or it. 

• Extreme reactions —They may experience intense anger, sadness or fear. 

• Unstable relationships — Relationships can be very intense and then suddenly end. 

• Idealization and devaluation — Your teen may see people as either all good or all bad. 

• Difficulty tolerating negative emotions — They may struggle to cope with feelings of sadness, anger or rejection. 

If you notice these signs in your teen, it’s important to talk to them about it and seek professional help. A therapist can provide guidance and support for both your teen and your family. 

How long does splitting last?

Splitting can last for varying lengths of time. The duration of splitting episodes can depend on factors such as:

• Your teen’s severity of BPD symptoms
• Your teen’s coping skills
• Your teen’s stress level 

Effects of splitting in teens experiencing BPD

Splitting can have a significant impact on your teen’s life, including:

• Unstable relationships — The rapid shifts between idealization and devaluation can make it difficult for your teen to maintain relationships.

• Emotional distress — Splitting can cause your teen to experience intense feelings of anger, sadness and confusion.

• Academic difficulties — Spitting can make it difficult for your teen to concentrate and focus on schoolwork. 

• Social isolation — The fear of rejection and abandonment can lead to social withdrawal. 

• Self-harm — In some cases, teens experiencing BPD may engage in self-harming behaviors in an attempt to cope with their overwhelming emotions. 

Causes of BPD in teens

The exact causes of borderline personality disorder in teens aren’t fully understood, but may be due to several factors, such as:

• Genetics — If there is a family history of BPD or other mental health conditions, there might be an increased risk.

• Environmental factors — Growing up in an unstable or traumatic environment can increase the risk of developing BPD. These include experiencing:

• Abuse
• Neglect
• Loss

• Emotional neglect or invalidation — Not having emotional needs met or having emotions dismissed can contribute to the development of BPD.

These factors may increase the risk of developing BPD, but they don’t necessarily guarantee that a teen will develop BPD. Many people experiencing BPD have experienced these factors, but not everyone who experiences them will develop the conditions. 

Treatment options for splitting and BPD in teens

Treatment for splitting and BPD in teens typically involves a combination of therapy and medications. The goal of treatment is to help your teen:

• Manage their symptoms
• Improve their relationships
• Develop healthier coping skills

Therapy is a crucial part of treating BPD and splitting in teens. Working with a therapist can help your teen:

• Develop healthier coping skills
• Manage their emotions
• Improve their relationships

Common types of therapy techniques used to treat BPD and splitting in teens include:

• Dialectical behavior therapy
• Cognitive behavioral therapy
• Mentalization-based therapy
• Schema therapy 

Medication can be a helpful tool in managing your teen’s BPD and splitting; it’s often used in combination with therapy. It’s essential to work closely with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate medication and dosage for your teen. Careful monitoring is also vital. 

Common types of medication that may be prescribed to help your teen manage their BPD and splitting include:

• Mood stabilizers
• Antidepressants
• Anti-anxiety medications

It should be noted that medications can have side effects, and it may take some time to find the right medication and dosage for your teen. Regular follow-ups with their healthcare provider are essential to monitor the effectiveness of the medication and make any necessary adjustments. 

How Embrace U can help support your teen who’s experiencing BPD and splitting

You’re not alone on this journey. At Embrace U, we specialize in helping families just like yours navigate the challenges of mental health conditions, including BPD and splitting. Our intensive outpatient programs offer a supportive and structured environment where your teen can learn valuable coping skills and build a sense of community with their peers. With the guidance of our experienced therapists and psychiatric providers, we can help your teen work toward a brighter future. By seeking support and embracing this journey together, you can help your teen overcome the challenges of BPD and splitting to build a more fulfilling life. 

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.