We need practical help

[BRTlove]

Hello Fellow Parents,

   My 16 year-old daughter was just officially diagnosed with BPD this morning, but I have suspected it for about a year now. She has also been diagnosed (prior to this) with anxiety, depression, bipolar Type II, and PTSD. She has been through so much and given up so much (with so much talent). Our family deals with the constant changing emotional weather on a daily basis, but I know she is suffering so much and wants love so much. She was hospitalized in Mid-February for suicidal ideation with a plan, and once discharged she only made it through DBT individual treatment 3 times prior to refusing to going back. Meds don't seem to do a whole lot at this point. We have a 14 year-old boy and 12 year old girl (both about to have a birthday).  I am joining this site to learn and gain support. I know there is a NAMI group close by, but I have not made it to one meeting yet. 

Sincerely,
H

Our objective is to better understand the struggles our child faces and to learn the skills to improve our relationship and provide a supportive environment and also improve on our own emotional responses, attitudes and effectiveness as a family leaders

[Harri]

Hi BRTlove and welcome to the site.  I am so glad you found us as this is a place filled with people who understand and can support you as you adjust to and learn more about this diagnosis, though I do understand you had suspected it for the last year. 

Have you had a chance to read the articles that run along the right side of the page?  A lot of them involve ways to help your daughter but they are also good for helping yourself too.  Understanding the mechanics of the disorder and learning communication tools can help depersonalize a lot of the behaviors.  They are also things you can teach your younger children so they can get good at self-care when dealing with the challenges of having a disordered sibling though in general they are good life skills to have when they head out into the world.

Anyway, I wanted to pop in and welcome you.  I normally post on a different section of this site but I do read all of the boards.  I know others will be along shortly to chime in and say hello and give you better guidance than I can.  In the meantime, feel free to roam the site.  There are so many posts and articles to read so take things slowly.  I hope you find this site as beneficial as I have over the last few years.  It is a wonderful place to land!

 

[Merlot]

Hi BRTlove

I join Harri in welcoming you to the bpdfamily

It can be as daunting as it is a relief to get a diagnosis and if it is what brought you here, that is a real positive as your story will resonate with so many parents and there is much support here.

It is wonderful that through the emotional rollercoaster that is BPD that you love and recognise the wonderful person she is and her own struggles, however I can sense the need to shelter your other children. Do you have a way of creating some space and special time for you younger children. Also how do you look after yourself.

I dont have experience with meds but hopefully other parents can chime in.

We look forward to hearing more about your journey.

Merlot