Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a serious condition that needs to be addressed right away – but what does a BPD episode look like in teens, and how will you know when it’s time to seek help?

Below, we’re sharing the signs of a BPD episode that all parents and caregivers need to know, plus an overview of what triggers BPD episodes and the next steps you should take. 

How a Borderline Personality Episode Manifests in Teens

A borderline personality episode may be harder to spot in a teen than an adult, largely due to the overlap of BPD symptoms with general adolescent struggles like impulse control and mood swings. However, in a flare-up, these struggles become more extreme and persistent, and you’re likely to notice a greater intensity of the emotional and behavioral challenges associated with the condition. 

Teens who are experiencing a borderline episode will often be more difficult to manage and may alternate between feelings of positivity and extreme isolation and withdrawal. They will likely have difficulty with daily tasks and responsibilities as well and may turn to substance use to cope. 

All in all, it’s a scary thing for teens to experience and parents to witness, and a clear sign that professional help is needed. 

Common Signs of a BPD Episode

Things that may indicate a BPD episode is occurring include:

• A sudden increase in impulsive and reckless behavior
• Intense mood swings and emotional outbursts
• Self-harm or suicidal ideations
• Extreme fear of abandonment or rejection
• Sudden shifts in self-image or identity
• Paranoia or dissociation from reality
• Self-harm or suicidal thoughts

It’s better to be safe than sorry. If you notice concerning signs, seek help instead of second guessing yourself – it might not be BPD, but it’s probably still worth addressing. 

What Triggers BPD Episodes?

There is no single thing that can trigger an episode. Instead, triggers tend to be quite personal and generally stem out of things like:

• Conflict with family or peers
• Rejection or perceived abandonment
• High levels of stress or pressure
• Unresolved trauma or painful memories

Keep in mind that the trigger doesn’t have to be “real” to cause an episode. Perceived conflict, for example, can put a teen at a high risk of having an episode just like actual conflict can. 

Coping Strategies & the Importance of Professional Support

A teen is incredibly vulnerable during a BPD flare-up and will need multiple types of support to get through it. 

Coping strategies that can be helpful during an episode include mindfulness exercises and open communication with trusted individuals. Provide your teen with emotional validation without feeding into irrationality or paranoia, and prioritize a calm and supportive environment at home. 

Seek immediate professional support for BPD if your teen is at risk of self-harm or having suicidal thoughts. Teens with borderline personality disorder make up 78% of all teens who visit the emergency room for suicidal behaviors and may require round-the-clock care while they are working through the symptoms of a flare-up. 

Borderline Personality Disorder Treatment Options for Teens

There are several modalities of treatment for BPD in teens: 

• Individual counseling
• Family therapy
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Medication management
• Residential treatment programs

Specialized residential treatment programs provide a safe haven where your teen’s disorder can be addressed, along with any co-occurring mental health conditions. Please get in touch to learn more about the benefits of residential treatment for teens with BPD. 

Supporting a Teen After a Borderline Episode

Borderline episodes can last for hours, days, weeks, or even months. But once they’re over, your teen will need help picking up the pieces. 

Help your teen reflect on the experience and encourage healthy coping mechanisms like self-care and therapy. You should also reinforce the boundaries and emotional support provided during the episode, ensuring predictability during a tumultuous time. 

Of course, borderline episodes are tough on parents, too. Take care to manage your own stress and avoid burnout by utilizing your support network, prioritizing relaxation, and, if necessary, talking to a qualified therapist about the experience. 

Help for Teens with BPD

So, what does a BPD episode look like in a teen? It’s different for everyone but is usually characterized by an intense, persistent, and possibly destructive amplification of mental and behavioral challenges. Early intervention is key, so if you notice the signs of a borderline episode, reach out to a professional for resources and support.The Ridge RTC offers compassionate residential care for teens with borderline personality disorder and other mental health conditions. Please contact us for one-on-one guidance, and explore our website for more information and BPD support services.