Does BPD Get Worse with Age?

Understanding BPD and Its Long-Term Impact

Well, if you're here, you're probably wondering whether Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) gets worse with age. Honestly, it’s a question that comes up often, especially from people who are navigating the complexities of BPD themselves or supporting a loved one. And the answer is not exactly straightforward. Actually, it’s a mix of yes, no, and maybe. Let me explain.

I’ve talked to a lot of people about this subject, and honestly, I’ve had my own thoughts and doubts about it too. But after researching, I can tell you there’s hope, and the trajectory isn’t always as grim as it might seem.

Does BPD Become More Severe with Time?

The Emotional Rollercoaster

BPD is known for its emotional instability, impulsive behaviors, and difficulty with relationships. If you or someone you know has BPD, you probably know all too well how overwhelming it can feel. Now, the thing is, BPD can evolve over time, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it gets worse.

From what I’ve gathered, some people with BPD experience less intense symptoms as they get older. In fact, research suggests that symptoms can improve with age. I had a conversation with a close friend who works in mental health, and she pointed out that many individuals in their 30s or 40s report feeling more stable and less emotionally reactive as they move through adulthood.

But What About the Negative Aspects?

On the flip side, for others, BPD can indeed worsen as they get older, especially if it’s untreated. The negative emotions, impulsivity, and self-destructive behaviors can take a toll on one's life, affecting relationships, careers, and overall well-being. If BPD symptoms aren’t addressed with the right therapies and support, it might lead to a spiraling situation as the person ages. It’s a bit like running a car into the ground without regular maintenance—it’s just going to break down eventually.

Can Therapy Help Stabilize BPD Symptoms Over Time?

The Role of Therapy and Treatment

Honestly, I can’t stress this enough: therapy works. From personal experience, I’ve seen how dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) has helped people significantly. DBT, specifically designed for people with BPD, helps individuals regulate their emotions and improve relationships. If someone with BPD commits to therapy, there’s a good chance their symptoms will stabilize over time.

Actually, I remember a conversation I had with a friend who had been diagnosed with BPD in her early 20s. She told me that after years of struggling, she finally felt like DBT was making a real difference. "It wasn’t easy, but now I’m more in control," she said. It made me realize that with the right support, it’s totally possible for people with BPD to experience long-term improvement.

How Long Does It Take for Therapy to Work?

It’s hard to give an exact timeline. Some people might feel better after just a few months of therapy, while for others, it could take years. But the important thing is that progress is possible—and it's not a straight line. You might take a few steps forward and then a step back. But honestly, that’s part of the process.

The Role of Relationships and Support

Can Relationships Help Someone with BPD?

When it comes to relationships, well, there’s no denying that people with BPD often struggle with trust and emotional attachment. But relationships—whether romantic, familial, or friendships—can actually be a huge help in stabilizing BPD symptoms. People with BPD often experience intense emotions, and being in supportive, understanding relationships can provide a sense of stability.

I had a conversation with my cousin, who has been living with someone diagnosed with BPD for years. She shared how communication and setting boundaries have been key to managing their relationship. "It’s hard, but we’ve found ways to help each other grow," she said. This type of support system can make a real difference in whether or not symptoms worsen as the person ages.

Can Age and Maturity Make a Difference?

It’s natural for people to mature emotionally as they age, and this is true for individuals with BPD as well. Over time, with the right treatment and support, many individuals learn to handle emotional fluctuations better and find healthier ways to cope. It’s not about suddenly being “cured” of BPD—it’s more about gaining better control over your reactions and finding a balanced life.

Conclusion: BPD Can Improve Over Time with the Right Approach

So, does BPD get worse with age? Well, the answer isn’t simple. It can worsen if left untreated, but it can also improve, especially with the right therapeutic interventions and support systems in place. If you or someone you know is dealing with BPD, don’t lose hope. It’s totally possible to live a fulfilling life with BPD, and it doesn’t have to get worse as you age.

Honestly, I’ve learned a lot from the stories of people who have worked through their struggles, and it’s inspiring to see how therapy, maturity, and support can make a world of difference. So, whether you're seeking help or supporting a loved one, just know that things can get better.

Is 165 cm normal for a 15 year old?

The predicted height for a female, based on your parents heights, is 155 to 165cm. Most 15 year old girls are nearly done growing. I was too. It's a very normal height for a girl.

Is 160 cm too tall for a 12 year old?

How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).

How tall is a average 15 year old?

Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years

How to get taller at 18?

Staying physically active is even more essential from childhood to grow and improve overall health. But taking it up even in adulthood can help you add a few inches to your height. Strength-building exercises, yoga, jumping rope, and biking all can help to increase your flexibility and grow a few inches taller.

Is 5.7 a good height for a 15 year old boy?

Generally speaking, the average height for 15 year olds girls is 62.9 inches (or 159.7 cm). On the other hand, teen boys at the age of 15 have a much higher average height, which is 67.0 inches (or 170.1 cm).

Can you grow between 16 and 18?

Most girls stop growing taller by age 14 or 15. However, after their early teenage growth spurt, boys continue gaining height at a gradual pace until around 18. Note that some kids will stop growing earlier and others may keep growing a year or two more.

Can you grow 1 cm after 17?

Even with a healthy diet, most people's height won't increase after age 18 to 20. The graph below shows the rate of growth from birth to age 20. As you can see, the growth lines fall to zero between ages 18 and 20 ( 7 , 8 ). The reason why your height stops increasing is your bones, specifically your growth plates.