Borderline Personality Traits to Watch For
June 2, 2025
How to Help Teens With Borderline Personality Disorders
Raising a teenager is an interesting journey for any parent. But when a teen’s emotions and moods feel more intense and out of control, it does raise concerns. Is this typical teenage behavior or could it be something more?
An often overlooked possibility is a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder (BPD) in your child. BPD is a mental health condition in which the patient has long-term patterns of unstable or explosive emotions. They may also experience anxiety disorders, self-harm, PTSD, eating disorders and substance use.
Borderline personality disorder causes are unknown. Genetics, social factors and physical or sexual abuse are thought to influence the disorder. While BPD is not typically diagnosed before age 18, early symptoms can emerge in adolescence, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
Recognizing the signs and seeking help early can be life-changing not only for your troubled teen – but for the whole family.
8 Signs of Borderline Personality Disorder Syndrome
Teens with emerging BPD traits often experience extreme emotional sensitivity and difficulty managing relationships. According to NIMH, an estimated 1.6% of the U.S. population has BPD, but the number may be higher in undiagnosed teens.
Signs and signals that may point to borderline personality tendencies:
1 Intense mood swings that shift rapidly and unpredictably.
2 Fear of abandonment when an upset teen feels ignored or rejected.
3 Unstable relationships that swing between idolizing and criticizing their friends and loved ones.
4 Impulsive behaviors like binge eating, reckless driving and drug use.
5 Self-harming behaviors like cutting, threats and possible suicidal thoughts.
6 Chronic feelings of emptiness and lack of clear identity.
7 Difficulty controlling anger with explosive outbursts over minor triggers.
8 Paranoia with feelings of intense stress.
Unfortunately, these distressing symptoms can overlap with other mental health issues, like clinical depression, so a full assessment by a mental health professional is essential.
How to help a teen with borderline personality traits
Supporting a teen with BPD traits requires loads of patience, empathy – and access to mental health resources. It can feel overwhelming but you’re definitely not alone. Many families will navigate this journey with the right skills and a strong support system.
Here’s what you can do:
- Seek a professional evaluation. A licensed psychologist or psychiatrist can provide a diagnosis and custom treatment plan tailored to the teen’s needs.
- Encourage dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). DBT has been adapted effectively for teens to help build emotional regulation and distress tolerance.
- Create a stable environment. Teens with BPD traits are extra sensitive to perceived rejection or instability. Practice clearer communication and consistent boundaries.
- Prioritize self-care. Supporting a child with intense emotional needs is draining, but try not to take it personally. Family therapy and support groups can make a difference in your own well-being.
Are medications used for borderline personality disorder?
Medication decisions should always be made in close consultation with a psychiatrist experienced in adolescent personality disorders. Doctors may prescribe medications to manage certain symptoms, including:
- Antidepressants for underlying anxiety and depression
- Mood stabilizers to reduce mood swings or impulsivity
- Antipsychotics to manage severe symptoms like dissociation or paranoia
Parenting a teen with possible borderline personality traits can feel isolating and frightening. But early recognition, compassionate care and professional support can make an enormous difference.
Contact Willow Springs Residential Treatment Center
Call 775-858-3303 or complete the interest form for information. Treatments at Willow Springs Center in Reno, Nevada, offer inpatient and outpatient programming for teens with behavioral issues, anxiety disorders and substance use.
If you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health crisis, call 988 or seek the nearest emergency department. For physical health emergencies, call 911 or get to the nearest emergency room.
