Dear Dr. Archer, I am deeply, deeply depressed and don't know how to break free. Much of the depression comes from my physical problems. However, I don't believe that is the only reason. I don't want to go anywhere, and I don't feel like doing anything. I feel worthless, useless and hopeless. I have no energy or motivation.
I have some physical problems that have been diagnosed as well as some that haven't. I have suffered from depression for years, only it used to be mild, but over the past year it has gotten worse and worse. Ten years ago, in a five minute visit, a doctor diagnosed me with Dependent Personality Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder.
I don't know if that was the correct diagnosis or not, but I would like to know for sure. I have read information on both disorders, and in a way they describe me but in another way they do not. Childhood was hell and adulthood isn't any better. I was raised in a very abusive home, and I was molested by several men, including my father. I was raped by a guy when I was 17, and also by my first husband many times. I have no self esteem or self worth, and I self injure myself at times.
I need advice, Dr. Archer. How do I tell if I have the BPD and The DPD? Right now I am just existing, I don't feel like doing a thing. I just lay on the bed 24/7 and leave the house only if it is absolutely necessary. I have posted here before and found help. I am hoping you can help me again.
Joyce
Dear Joyce,
First of all, it is clear that you are suffering from depression. Your depression is the disorder that takes priority here, because once that is under control, then you will have the strength and energy to work on any personality issues you may have.
There are no laboratory tests specifically designed to diagnose DPD and BPD, but the psychiatrist will use specially designed interview and assessment tools to evaluate a person for a personality disorder. I cannot make a diagnosis over the Internet, but I trust your doctor is knowledgeable in his field to make the correct diagnosis. However, if you would feel better by having a second opinion, then I suggest you make an appointment with a psychiatrist, and see what his conclusions reveal.
People with DPD are prone to developing depression or anxiety, so it is extremely important that you communicate everything to your doctor. Psychotherapy, a type of counseling, is usually the main method of treatment for DPD. The goal of this therapy is to help the sufferer become more active and independent and learn to form healthy relationships. Short term therapy with set specific goals is ideal, because long-term therapy can lead to dependence on the therapist.
BPD, on the other hand, is often difficult to treat. Relapse, or a return of symptoms, is a common problem. Consistent, long-term treatment of this disorder is important. Successful treatment for BPD is more difficult if you have *been abused as a child, *had continuous symptoms over a long period of time, *continue to be unable to control your emotions or *experienced problems with aggression, depression or other mental health conditions. As you can see, you have mentioned a few of these in your letter. These are very serious disorders, but with help, many improve over time and are eventually able to lead productive lives.
Once again, Joyce, the first thing to do is to get your depression treated. Once that is accomplished, you will be much more able to handle any other problems.
Dr. Archer
