GF just diagnosed 3 weeks ago

[Noshimo]

Hello, I just found this site after looking for articles on strategies for dealing with BPD in a loved one.

My girlfriend of 6 months was just recently diagnosed with BPD about 3 weeks ago by her psychiatrist. She's struggled with that for a long time, as well as PTSD and potentially bipolar disorder, I'm not sure about that last one. But she has also been officially diagnosed with PTSD in the past as well, from prior abusive relationships.

So now that we have some clarity on why she can behave the way she does, that's helped. I'm just interested in seeing how other people handle it in their day to day lives.

[RELATIONSHIP PROBLEM SOLVING]

RELATIONSHIP PROBLEM SOLVING This is a high level discussion board for solving ongoing, day-to-day relationship conflicts. Members are welcomed to express frustration but must seek constructive solutions to problems. This is not a place for relationship "stay" or "leave" discussions. Please read the specific guidelines for this group.

[pearlsw]

Hi Noshimo,

Welcome to the family! That sounds great that you have been able to find some clarity, especially so early on in your relationship.

Are there particular issues that you are dealing with and want to ask the community about? On the right hand side of the page you'll see information on Basic Tools. Perhaps this is where you'd like to start?

Mindfulness is a strategy you can use to keep your thinking clear instead of getting so overwhelmed with the other person's emotions. https://bpdfamily.com/content/triggering-and-mindfulness-and-wise-mind

I think the link on Don't be Invalidating is also an important starting part as it will help you relate better to someone who has emotional sensitivity. Here ya go: https://bpdfamily.com/content/communication-skills-dont-be-invalidating

There is a lot of info. here! I am always finding new nuggets of help when I take the time to explore. Spend time getting to know us on the boards, but also read up on the lessons so you can have great tools to help make things a bit more smooth in your daily life!

Again, welcome!

[Tattered Heart]

Hi Noshimo,

WElcome Congratulations on getting a Dx for your partner! You've found a great place for support and help through those tough times. Making things work takes constant effort and committment. You'll have a lot of ups and downs. We have a lot of resoruces on the right side of the page that can help you. To get you started, one of our workshops called The Dos and Don'ts of a BPD Relationship can give a general run down of things that might help.

How is your pwBPD reacting to the new diagnosis? How do you feel about it?