Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD), also known as Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), is a condition marked by intense emotional reactions, unstable relationships, and a fragile sense of identity. It can lead to distressing cycles that are hard to break without support.
“It felt like I was constantly on an emotional rollercoaster—every little thing hit me so deeply, and I didn’t know how to get off.”
EUPD often goes unrecognised in adults who’ve spent years masking their distress. Many live with chronic emptiness, unstable moods, and a deep fear of being abandoned. Emotional responses may feel overwhelming and difficult to manage—ranging from explosive anger to sudden numbness or despair. Relationships can feel intense but fragile, with patterns of idealisation followed by withdrawal.
Adults with EUPD often have a history of trauma, neglect, or emotional invalidation, but not always. Others simply describe feeling emotionally ‘too much’ from an early age. Self-harm, impulsive decisions, or recurrent thoughts of suicide may occur. EUPD is frequently stigmatised—but it is treatable, and recovery is possible with the right therapeutic approach and supportive relationships.
“Helping someone with EUPD feel seen, safe, and understood is powerful. Over time, the emotional storms become calmer—and so much healing becomes possible.”
At Bloomfield Health, we provide compassionate, trauma-informed care for adults with EUPD. Our clinicians are experienced in therapies proven to help, including Structured Clinical Management (SCM), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) skills, psychodynamic psychotherapy, schema-focussed cognitive therapy and trauma-focussed CBT. We focus on developing emotion regulation skills, understanding interpersonal patterns, and helping you build a stronger, more stable sense of self. We work collaboratively at your pace, with respect for your autonomy and potential for change.
In practice, yes. “Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder” is term used in the International Classification of Diseases published by the World Health Organisation, whereas “Borderline Personality Disorder” is the term used by the American Psychiatric Association in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. The diagnostic criteria for these two conditions vary slightly but in practice there is so much clinical overlap in the two conditions that the terms are often used interchangeably.
Absolutely. With consistent therapy and support, many people with EUPD go on to lead fulfilling, stable lives.
The term reflects long-standing patterns in emotional and relational functioning—but many find it unhelpful or stigmatising. You are not your diagnosis.
It’s often linked to early emotional trauma or invalidating environments, but genetic and temperamental factors also play a role.
DBT and CBT are the most evidence-based, but we tailor treatment to your needs and preferences. There is also evidence for psychodynamic psychotherapy.
No. Many people see real, lasting improvements. Emotional intensity can become a strength when managed with care.
Only if you’re ready. Therapy starts with building safety and skills before exploring painful memories.
You are not. That message is wrong and outdated. With understanding and the right support, recovery is absolutely possible.
We are registered by the Care Quality Commission (CQC),
the independent regulator of health and social care in England.
