Splitting

People always think that BPD and Bipolar Disorder are the same. They’ll say “Oh, like Bipolar?” No. Not even close. A major part of having Borderline Personality Disorder is a symptom commonly known as splitting, which signifies the difference between BPD and Bipolar. This is an unintentional and sometimes unconscious reaction to certain situations, based on the person. This is the biggest part of what many refer to as “seeing in black in white,” we conclude in our split that something is either good or bad. Most of the time, you can clearly tell when someone is splitting, typically when they’re mad or upset as it is very visual. It’s an all-or-nothing mindset. This is one of the most dangerous traits of a person with BPD, as it could end dangerously. A scary symptom of Borderline Personality disorder is self-harm, and mixing that with a split will never end well. Personally, splitting causes me to lash out as my emotions are overflowing and overstimulating my brain to a point in which I cannot contain them. During my splits, I black out, and do not remember what damage I have caused or what words I had said. I have even passed out from a split due to hyperventilation. The best way you can help somebody with a split is to ensure they are in a safe space, especially if it is an angry or upset level of reaction. It is likely that they will become aggressive, and could harm themselves or others around them. Another way to help is to reassure that their feelings are valid, even if you don’t agree. The more you disagree with the person, the worse they will get. It is best to just shed some light whenever you can. With a happy split, it is also important to make them feel comfortable, as they may change moods if you seem like you do not care. When I have a split about something I’m happy about or proud of, I look for people who get just as excited as I do. If I cannot find someone with the same energy, I feel as though no one cares and that it’s not something to be happy about, which leads me to going down a dark tunnel of negative thoughts and feelings. As an outsider, the best you can do for someone with BPD is to match their energy, but also remind them that it’s not the end of the world and to try and put a positive, yet comfortable spin on their mindset. Every Borderline needs their person, including myself. Luckily I have found someone who understands that I do not have full control of my emotions and doesn’t take my negative words/actions to heart as I do not mean them. 

If you or someone you know is indulging in self harm, please call for help.

Kids Help Phone: https://kidshelpphone.ca/need-help-now-text-us/

Canadian suicide/crisis hotline: call or text 9-8-8