Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is often described as one of the most challenging mental health conditions to live with, but research over the past three decades has dramatically changed how clinicians understand the long-term course of BPD. Once thought to be untreatable, studies now show that remission from BPD symptoms is not only possible, but common when people receive the right care.
At Sierra Meadows Behavioral Health, we specialize in evidence-based psychotherapy and supportive programs designed to help individuals reduce BPD symptoms, improve functioning, and move toward remission.
What Does “Remission” From BPD Mean?
When people talk about remission from borderline personality disorder (BPD), they’re describing a period when the most disruptive symptoms—like intense mood swings, self-harm urges, or unstable relationships—become much less frequent or severe. It doesn’t mean that every challenge disappears, but it does mean that daily life feels more stable, manageable, and less defined by crisis.
Remission is possible when individuals have the right mental health treatment, supportive relationships, and effective coping skills in place. Over time, people with BPD can learn to regulate emotions, build healthier connections, and strengthen their sense of self. With consistent care and practice, remission can feel like regaining control of your life and moving toward long-term well-being.
Why BPD Has a Reputation for Being “Hard to Treat”
BPD involves a complex set of symptoms, including:
- Fear of abandonment
- Unstable relationships
- Rapid mood swings
- Impulsivity and self-harm
- Chronic feelings of emptiness
- Suicidal thoughts or attempts
Because these symptoms affect relationships, self-image, and behavior all at once, they can lead to significant impairment in psychosocial functioning, vocational functioning, and daily life. Early studies often focused on inpatient samples—people with the most severe presentations—giving the impression that the course of borderline personality disorder was inevitably chronic.
But more recent 10-year prospective follow-up studies (Zanarini et al., Arch Gen Psychiatry, American Journal of Psychiatry) show that with appropriate treatment, most people improve dramatically, and many no longer meet full BPD diagnosis criteria after sustained recovery work.
Is Remission Actually Possible?
Yes. Multiple long-term outcome studies confirm that remission is achievable:
- The McLean Study of Adult Development found that 88% of borderline patients experienced remission at some point during a 10-year period.
- In the Collaborative Longitudinal Personality Disorders Study (CLPS), researchers including Skodol AE, Sanislow CA, Grilo CM, and Gunderson JG reported remission rates that were significantly higher for BPD compared to other personality disorders.
- While relapse can occur, sustained functional improvement in areas like employment, education, and relationships is possible.
Practical Steps to Support Your Own Recovery
While treatment with trained clinicians is essential, there are skills and lifestyle changes that support long-term remission:
- Engage in therapy consistently: DBT or CBT works best with regular attendance.
- Practice mindfulness daily: Even 5–10 minutes a day reduces reactivity and stress.
- Build coping strategies: Skills like grounding techniques or distress tolerance exercises prevent impulsive reactions.
- Involve family members: Family therapy improves communication and reduces conflict at home.
- Prioritize wellness: Sleep, exercise, nutrition, and reducing substance abuse are critical for stability.
Why Sierra Meadows Is a Trusted Resource in Fresno and the Central Valley
At Sierra Meadows Behavioral Health, our mental health professionals combine the latest research with compassionate care. We understand that people with BPD often feel misunderstood or stigmatized, and we aim to create an environment of safety and empowerment.
Our programs in Fresno, California include:
- Inpatient stabilization for crisis situations
- Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)
- Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)
- Outpatient therapy and aftercare
Whether you or a loved one is newly diagnosed or seeking to build on years of progress, we provide a continuum of care that supports each step of the journey.
How BPD Is Treated
Effective borderline personality disorder (BPD) treatment starts with a personalized treatment plan designed to meet each individual’s unique needs. Mental health professionals draw on evidence-based therapies and decades of clinical research to guide care. Depending on symptoms and goals, treatment may include:
1. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Developed by Marsha Linehan, DBT was created specifically for borderline patients. It teaches skills in mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. DBT has one of the strongest evidence bases for reducing suicide attempts, self-harm, and hospitalizations.
2. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps individuals identify distorted thinking patterns, reduce black-and-white thinking, and build healthier coping mechanisms. Research shows CBT can complement DBT by targeting co-occurring conditions like major depressive disorder, panic disorder, or substance use disorders.
3. Trauma-Informed Psychotherapy
Because many BPD patients report traumatic experiences, therapies like EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and prolonged exposure therapy can reduce PTSD symptoms that often worsen emotional instability.
4. Group Therapy & Peer Support
Studies demonstrate that structured group therapy improves psychosocial functioning, enhances self-report outcomes, and creates accountability. Sharing with others who have similar experiences reduces isolation and builds community.
5. Medication Management
While no medication “cures” BPD, psychiatric providers may prescribe medications for Axis I disorders such as anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder that often co-occur with BPD. This integrated approach—sometimes referred to as dual diagnosis care—can reduce overall symptom burden.
Take the First Step Toward Remission
Borderline Personality Disorder doesn’t have to define your life. Research from Zanarini MC, Paris J, Fitzmaurice, Hennen J, Reich DB, and colleagues has shown that symptomatic remission is possible—and with the right treatment programs, you can reclaim stability and build a meaningful future.
Call Sierra Meadows Behavioral Health today at (559) 236-5854 to schedule a confidential consultation, verify insurance, and begin your personalized treatment plan.
