People with a borderline personality disorder diagnosis describe discriminatory experiences

The psychiatric diagnosis of borderline personality disorder (BPD) attracts considerable stigma. People given this diagnosis may be characterised as manipulative, difficult, attention-seeking or untreatable. This paper describes a New Zealand study where eight people with a BPD diagnosis who self-identified as encountering discriminatory experiences from healthcare professionals were interviewed. Themes found included that discriminatory experiences contributed to participants' negative self-image and negative messages about the BPD label were communicated. A self-harm history appeared to be related to an increased number of discriminatory experiences. Connecting with the person and ‘seeing more’ (beyond an individual's diagnosis and/or behaviour) epitomised helpful experiences. Additionally, a relationship between stigma and the complaints process was noted. This study privileges the voice of those interviewed and may stimulate thought and discussion for services and health professionals working with this group.