BPD and Memory Loss

Borderline personality disorder, or BPD, is a personality disorder that has a severe impact on a person’s ability to manage their emotions. This can present itself as intense mood swings, along with an overall uncertainty regarding how a person sees themselves. It can also result in a significant amount of forgetfulness, which only adds to the distressing nature of this disorder. Banyan Mental Health is evaluating the relationship between BPD and memory loss. 

What Is Emotional Regulation? 

Emotional regulation refers to a person’s ability to control their own emotional state. A lack of this crucial function is a hallmark of a BPD diagnosis, and as such, many of its sufferers are unable to cope with negative stimuli in a reasonable manner. This results in lashing out, dishonesty, and other negative coping mechanisms that can have a detrimental effect on a person’s relationships. It is also why people seeking treatment will undergo programs that foster the development of emotional regulation skills. 

BPD and lying also commonly go hand in hand. This could be for a number of reasons. First, the intensity with which these individuals experience emotions can severely distort their overall perceptions. Second, high levels of impulsivity can play a role. Many people with BPD act out without considering the consequences. This can take the form of perpetuating a lie before they even realize what they are saying isn’t true.  

Finally, shame is a large facet of borderline personality disorder. When a person realizes they have made a mistake, it is not uncommon for them to feel the need to conceal it. Lying is a common way for them to avoid the literal and metaphorical consequences of their actions, while living in such denial often does little for their overall well-being.  

Does BPD Make You Forgetful? 

Studies have found that there are clear links between BPD and memory loss. One such study determined that BPD patients displayed enhanced instances of memory loss in response to the presentation of negative emotions.1 This is thought to occur because of other severe dissociative symptoms that sufferers experience. The brain develops methods to protect itself from negative experiences, and with such intense instances like those felt by borderline patients, it is not surprising that this takes the form of literally forgetting negative experiences and is referred to as BPD amnesia. 

BPD amnesia is not an “easy way out.” In reality, it is a sad reminder of the often all-encompassing aspects of this disorder. Many that suffer from it don’t always intend to cause issues. It is a much deeper issue that they themselves often struggle to understand. What is important to remember is that help is out there, and people with such a diagnosis can live happy, healthy lives with the right support. 

Don’t Struggle With Mental Illness Alone 

No one should be forced to suffer in silence. Borderline personality disorder is a destructive force that can destroy relationships if not handled properly. Luckily, Banyan offers mental health care in Boca Raton that can effectively address all facets of a person’s disorder. Even family members that have likely felt the effects of BPD in a loved one can access therapy programs that give them a voice in a situation that often makes people feel powerless. Even in the case of a mental health relapse, our team of professionals will be there with you every step of the way. 

 Don’t let instances of BPD and forgetfulness continue to control your life. To learn more about our residential mental health program, call our intake specialists at 888-280-4763 today. 

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