Borderline Personality Disorder: Seeking the Gray

Borderline Personality Disorder. It has been deemed a heavy diagnosis. One that has been linked to characteristics such as manipulative, self-destructive, unstable, selfish, and untreatable. It is described as involving patterns of wavering interpersonal relationships, a distorted sense of self, and emotional reactions that are characterized as intense.

In this episode, we’re going to confront some truly harmful labels, reiterate that this diagnosis, contrary to popular belief, is indeed treatable, and note that amidst the black and white thinking, there is a middle space of gray to be found and known. To help us tackle all of these things and more, we’ll be joined by Genevieve Jacobs and counselor Patrick Miranda.

Genevieve is a resident physician navigating the roles of both doctor and patient with her diagnosis of borderline personality disorder. She is passionate about addressing the stigma associated with physician mental health and seeking help. Gen currently lives in Ontario, Canada, with her partner and their dog. Outside of work, you can often find her kayaking, adventuring with her pup, or working on being a better plant mom.

Patrick Miranda has worked in multiple treatment settings, including residential and outpatient services for substance use disorders. He has experience working with adolescents, adults, and families with a range of therapeutic issues, including addiction, mood disorders, trauma, and suicidality. He especially enjoys working with those in the LGBTQ+ community. In his downtime, Patrick reads a lot and plays an exceptional amount of video games.