Trigger warning: this article discusses borderline personality disorder as a mental disorder, in addition to self-harm. This article is solely for educational purposes. If you or someone you know feel like you are struggling with borderline personality disorder, please seek professional help for an evaluation.
Borderline personality disorder is considered one of the most complex disorders known to psychologists today. From constant misdiagnoses to therapists turning down patients, BPD is highly stigmatized as well as misunderstood in society and the mental health community alike. Misdiagnosis is so common with BPD patients because the symptoms are so complex. Sometimes when conducting an evaluation, the individual may not be able to fully express their feelings, triggers, and interfering behaviors. On the other hand, a lot of therapists tend to stay away from diagnosing their patients with BPD because many therapists share the general stigma that surrounds patients with BPD – that they are very hard to treat.
It is important to understand that to be properly diagnosed with BPD, the individual must qualify for at least five of the nine symptoms that the disorder comes with. Prior to this, the symptoms themselves also must be understood – one of which is feelings of chronic emptiness.
Feelings of Chronic Emptiness in Individuals with BPD
Feelings of chronic emptiness are a prominent and challenging symptom of BPD which require clinical intervention. Not fully understanding this feeling can result in misdiagnosis of other disorders such as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Some may describe their feelings of emptiness as a sense of longing, confusion, and even boredom. This symptom may immerge through the loss or unclear image of the sense of self and intensity of emotions of the individual struggling with BPD, resulting in a state of perplexity on how to cope and ultimately feeling empty inside. When experiencing these feelings, it is important to learn ways in which you can strengthen your identity, sense of purpose, and relationship functioning in order to reduce the intensity of emptiness and prosper in fostering a better life.
Why Feelings of Chronic Emptiness Should Be Taken Seriously
According to therapist Amanda Smith on her online blog “Hope for BPD”, she states, “it is not uncommon for people who feel empty to also think about suicide or self-harming behaviors. Emptiness may also be a catalyst for many people with borderline personality disorder to engage in addictive behaviors.” Feelings of chronic emptiness, apathy, and despair can ultimately cause an individual to spiral, and the feelings may result in severe detriment to oneself.
If you or someone that you know is experiencing chronic emptiness, it is crucial to speak to a professional as well as request an evaluation for Borderline Personality Disorder.