My sister was diagnosed with Emotionally Unstable Personality Disorder (EUPD) in her late teens after experiencing psychosis, self-harm, and suicide attempts. Although she was given this diagnosis, the only symptoms she exhibits are self-harm, depression, and suicidal thoughts, which can be attributed to her adverse childhood experiences. Despite this, psychiatrists and health professionals have labelled her as having a ”behavioural issue”, saying “there is no cure,” and describing her as “impulsive.” This diagnosis has not helped her and is often used by professionals to dismiss and minimise her experiences and distress.

My sister has requested to have this diagnosis removed and reevaluated. Since her initial diagnosis, she has also been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Attention Deficit Disorder, and an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) assessment has been discussed. However, the EUPD diagnosis remains on her records and continues to be used to diminish her distress.

Unfortunately, I have seen parallels between my sister’s experiences and those of other individuals I have supported. It seems that any woman who shows distress, self-harms, or has suicidal thoughts during their teenage or young adult years is given an EUPD diagnosis. In my professional experience, people are often labelled as “manipulative” or “attention-seeking,” and my least favourite phrase, “it’s behavioural,” is frequently used. This phrase attempts to dismiss people’s distress by suggesting that their actions are a choice rather than a response to underlying issues.

I have engaged in numerous discussions with colleagues and professionals, explaining that all behaviours serve a function for the individual. What do they mean by “it’s behavioural”? I am frustrated with working in an environment where I constantly have to challenge this stigmatising language and attitudes. I believe some of these issues stem from the NHS/social care services being underfunded and staff being overworked, leaving little energy to consider the underlying causes of behaviours they observe.

The term is highly stigmatizing and unhelpful. Overall, I believe EUPD should be removed from the DSM, and all personality disorder criteria should be reviewed. These diagnoses are stigmatising in a world where mental health already carries significant stigma.

Speak your truth: your own experiences can help create change

If you want to share your experiences around this diagnosis you can take part in Platfform’s Truth Project.

Platfform are campaigning for a review of the use of the diagnosis of PD. Add your voice to our call for change by sharing your story. We will share these with Welsh Government and use them to strengthen our campaign.

For more information, and to access the survey, click here.

If you are in a mental health crisis, please read this paragraph

If you have been affected by anything in this story and would like to talk to someone you can call Samaritans on 116 123. You can also call the national mental health support line for advice on 111 (press 2.)