What department should I go to for symptoms of borderline personality disorder

For symptoms of borderline personality disorder, it is recommended to seek medical attention from a psychiatric or clinical psychologist. Borderline personality disorder is mainly characterized by emotional instability, tense interpersonal relationships, confused self-identity, impulsive behavior, etc. It may be caused by genetic factors, childhood trauma, abnormal brain function, and other factors.

1. Psychiatry

Psychiatrists can diagnose borderline personality disorder through clinical interviews, psychological assessment scales, and other methods. The diagnostic criteria include persistent emotional regulation disorders, interpersonal sensitivity, self-image disorders, and other characteristics. Doctors may recommend psychological interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy, and may use mood stabilizers or antidepressants if necessary. The treatment process requires establishing a long-term stable doctor-patient relationship to help patients improve their impulsive behavior and emotional management abilities.

2. Clinical Psychology

Clinical Psychology focuses on psychological assessment and treatment, suitable for patients with mild symptoms or those who refuse medication treatment. Psychologists will use tools such as structured interviews and Rorschach inkblot tests to assess patients' cognitive patterns and emotional response characteristics. Common treatment options include cognitive based therapy, schema therapy, etc., with a focus on improving patients' interpersonal interaction patterns and self-awareness. The treatment cycle is usually long and requires the cooperation and participation of family members in the rehabilitation process.

3. Psychosomatic Medicine

When patients have obvious somatic symptoms, they can choose psychosomatic medicine. This department specializes in handling physical discomfort caused by psychological factors, such as chronic pain, gastrointestinal dysfunction, etc. Doctors will evaluate the psychological and physiological response patterns of patients and use biofeedback therapy combined with relaxation training to alleviate symptoms. For patients with comorbid anxiety and depression, low-dose anti anxiety drugs may be combined to improve sleep and physical discomfort.

4. When there is a crisis situation such as self injury or suicide in the psychiatric emergency department [SEP], it is necessary to immediately go to the psychiatric emergency department. Emergency doctors will prioritize handling physical injuries such as open wounds, assess suicide risk levels, and implement 72 hour emergency hospitalization observation if necessary. During the crisis intervention phase, sedatives may be used to control emotional outbursts, and once the situation stabilizes, the patient may be referred to a specialist clinic for systematic treatment. Family members are required to cooperate in removing potential hazardous materials from the environment.

5. Department of Child and Adolescent Psychology

Patients under 18 years old are recommended to seek medical attention from the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychology. The doctors in this department are familiar with the special manifestations of borderline personality disorder during development, such as frequent campus conflicts, non suicidal self harm behavior, etc. The treatment will take into account family system intervention, guide parents to use confirmatory communication methods, and help adolescents establish safe attachment relationships. For patients with comorbidities of attention deficit or hyperactivity symptoms, caution should be exercised in evaluating whether to use neuromodulatory drugs. Patients with borderline personality disorder should maintain a regular daily routine and avoid the intake of alcohol and irritating substances. Mindfulness meditation, yoga, and other soothing exercises can be performed to regulate emotions and establish a stable social support network. Family members should learn effective communication skills to avoid excessive involvement in the patient's emotional fluctuations, regularly accompany follow-up visits, and record changes in symptoms. If there is suicidal ideation or worsening behavior due to self injury, it is necessary to immediately contact the attending physician or call the psychological assistance hotline.