Emotionally unstable personality disorder : an in-depth analysis in clinical practice

Abstract

Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD), formerly known as Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a multifaceted mental health condition affecting approximately 1.6% of the general population and 20% of psychiatric inpatients. This disorder manifests in intense and unstable relationships, emotional dysregulation, impulsivity and an inconsistent sense of self. Individuals with EUPD often face challenges in daily life, including conflicts, fear of abandonment and difficulties in occupational and educational pursuits. This paper presents a comprehensive literature review on EUPD, focusing on its clinical presentation, diagnosis and treatment approaches. The DSM-V and IDC-11 criteria are discussed, highlighting common features and differences. Various psychotherapeutic approaches, such as Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Mentalisation-Based Treatment (MBT), Schema-Focused Therapy (SFT) and Transference-Focused Psychotherapy (TFP) are explored. Pharmacotherapy, including antidepressants, anticonvulsants, antipsychotics, mood stabilisers, Cannabis-Based Medicinal Products (CBMP) and Omega-3 Fatty Acids are examined. Challenges in clinical practice, such as diagnosis disclosure, referral to specialist therapy and involuntary hospitalisation are addressed. The paper concludes by emphasizing the importance of understanding recovery and quality of life for individuals with EUPD. It acknowledges the promising prospects of CBMPs and Omega-3 Fatty Acids in treatment, urging further research. Furthermore, the study contributes to the broader understanding of EUPD, guiding future research and clinical efforts.