Borderline Personality Disorder
On this page
- What is borderline personality disorder?
- Where can I learn more about borderline personality disorder?
- Why is NIMH studying borderline personality disorder?
- How is NIMH research addressing this critical topic?
- Explore clinical trials about borderline personality disorder
- Share outreach materials about borderline personality disorder
- Find help and support
- Additional federal resources
What is borderline personality disorder?
Borderline personality disorder is a mental illness that severely impacts a person’s ability to regulate their emotions. This loss of emotional control can increase impulsivity, affect how a person feels about themselves, and negatively impact their relationships with others.
Where can I learn more about borderline personality disorder?
Free health information
Brochures and fact sheets with more information about borderline personality disorder, including signs, symptoms, and treatment options. Available for free in print and online.
Statistics
Information about the prevalence and treatment of borderline personality disorder in the United States.
Why is NIMH studying borderline personality disorder?
Borderline personality disorder can cause significant challenges to a person’s relationships and emotional well-being. People with borderline personality disorder are more likely to engage in self-harm. They may also experience symptoms of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, substance use disorder, or eating disorders.
These challenges can lead to significant distress and a lower quality of life. Effective treatments can help people with borderline personality disorder manage their symptoms, support their well-being, and improve their daily functioning.
How is NIMH research addressing this critical topic?
NIMH funds research to explore how a person’s biology and environment contribute to borderline personality disorder. One focus includes studying the influence of genetic and brain-based differences and the impact of cultural and social factors.
We’re also supporting research evaluating the effectiveness of established treatments, such as dialectical behavior therapy, and emerging therapies and medications. Additionally, we are committed to identifying promising avenues for improving early intervention and personalized treatment approaches for people living with borderline personality disorder.
Explore clinical trials about borderline personality disorder
Clinical trials are research studies that look at new ways to prevent, detect, or treat diseases and conditions. To learn more or find a study, visit:
- Clinical Trials – Information for Participants: Answers to common questions about clinical trials, including why people might take part in a clinical trial and what they can expect
- Clinicaltrials.gov: Current Studies on Borderline Personality Disorder : List of clinical trials funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) being conducted across the country
Share outreach materials about borderline personality disorder
Digital shareables
Social media graphics, videos, and resources about borderline personality disorder.
Find help and support
Learn how to find help for yourself or someone else. You can also find support and locate mental health services in your area on the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website.
If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org . In life-threatening situations, call 911.
Additional federal resources
- Borderline Personality Disorder (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration): Information about causes, signs and symptoms, and treatment options
- Personality Disorders (MedlinePlus): Information, journal articles, and other resources about personality disorders collected by the National Library of Medicine
Last Reviewed: January 2025