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Children, Parents, or Relatives with BPD => Son, Daughter or Son/Daughter In-law with BPD => Topic started by: Annelizabeth on January 19, 2017, 10:27:26 AM



Title: Where do we go now?
Post by: Annelizabeth on January 19, 2017, 10:27:26 AM
After 4 residential programs, DBT and ongoing therapy and medication we are nearing the dreaded 18th birthday. What do we do? Residential before the actual birthday has been suggested otherwise we cannot force her. They say we are too late for guardianship. We didn't even know about this before. A power of attorney? But arrange to put her in another residential ... .Really? Is this her fate? To be locked away? At times she threatens to leave the house and go away. This is our fear. Her being " out there". Are there group homes for independent living or that can transition her to independent living? We' re worried. We have never been " taught" how to deal with her moods and emotions.  Help.


Title: Re: Where do we go now?
Post by: drained1996 on January 19, 2017, 03:40:41 PM
Hi Annelizabeth,

So sorry to hear of the circumstances that bring you here.  Having a loved one with BPD traits in our lives can be very challenging to say the least.  You'll find you are not alone, as many here either have or are walking in your shoes.  I personally do not have experience with a child with BPD, but I am pretty experienced with the illness having had two diagnosed significant others in my life. 

Excerpt
We have never been " taught" how to deal with her moods and emotions.

One thing many of us have learned is that we cannot change them (that's up to them), but we can change how we react to and communicated with them.  Often times the way we react to or communicate with them simply exacerbates the issue.  In the upper right margin of this page you will find some tools and lessons geared to help you improve your own reactions and communication in your situation.  Many have found putting these suggested tips into use has improved their circumstances. 

Keep posting, you may also want to post your legal questions here:  https://bpdfamily.com/message_board/index.php?board=10.0

You've found the right place for knowledge, understanding, and sharing.   


Title: Re: Where do we go now?
Post by: livednlearned on January 24, 2017, 10:44:52 AM
Hi Annelizabeth,

Have you read Buddha and the Borderline? It's a memoir of a woman who went through DBT, including living independently (an important part of recovery). If nothing else it may provide you some insight into what someone with BPD experiences as she recovers and goes on to live a life worth living.

Is there a possibility your D will come live with you?

For dealing with moods and emotions, have you read any of the books recommended? If not, I would be happy to list some that have helped me. They don't prevent the mood swings and emotional dysregulation, though there are plenty of skills that prevent things from getting worse.

Glad you posted and hope you'll share more with us. You're not alone.

 :)

LnL