chrys·a·lis — a transitional state; a sheltered state or stage of being or growth.

Imagine that a butterfly may not metamorphose just once, but could seek or create a protective shelter at any time, and emerge as something a little different.

That may be a more beautiful way to think about how a person with borderline personality disorder sometimes shrinks back inside of themselves protectively.

On these pages, please find additional descriptions of the nine diagnostic indicators of BPD.*

One – Fear of abandonment.

Two – Unstable relationships.

Three – Unclear or shifting self-image.

Four – Impulsive, self-destructive behaviors.

Five – Self-harm.

Six – Extreme emotional swings.

Seven – Chronic feelings of emptiness.

Eight – Explosive anger.

Nine – Feeling out of touch with reality.

These nine symptoms (DSM-IV) may be used to diagnose borderline personality disorder. Many of these symptoms are common to other disorders and you should seek professional guidance if you are concerned about a diagnosis.

*Bipolar disorder is abbreviated BD and shares many symptoms with BPD.