WHAT CAN I DO FOR MY DAUGHTER WITH BPD AND ALCOHOLISM? 
Ask The Doctor Dr. Leland Heller Biological Unhappiness 
WHAT CAN I DO FOR MY DAUGHTER WITH BPD AND ALCOHOLISM? 
Question: Dear Dr. Heller, We are parents of an adult child (25) that we feel definitely exhibits the symptoms of BPD. We have been trying to educate ourselves and seeking out support groups in our geographic area (Cleveland, Ohio). We really do not know of a specific incident, traumatic event, environmental cause, or any other major event in our daughter’s life that would contribute to her BPD personality disorder. I am only able think of the ADD association that may have triggered this or a biological predisposition. The problem of dealing effectively with BPD is also being compounded by a severe alcohol addiction. I think the biggest problem we are having is trying to react to both of these issues and trying to be helpful and not hurtful but realizing with the alcohol constantly present we are not even able to address the issues of BPD. We have been seeing a alcohol counselor, have attended family sessions associated with 3 different rehabilitation facilities, go to Alanon meetings, devouring any information we can on BPD and we still aren’t sure how to handle the “big picture” as we keep being told that you must get rid of the alcohol addiction before you can possibly treat the mental disorder. We are finding that rather contradictory since the alcohol addiction information seems to make us want to let her figure it out on her own and not enable, but the message to help with BPD seems to be get involved more in helping them. We are looking for any information that could help us to be instrumental in her seeking help. I do not think she has ever continued on any course long enough to have it be of any help to her. I know this is another problem in the world of BPD and I don’t know how we could help with this. I’m sure I am just hitting the tip of the iceberg but I guess to sum it up , we are looking for help and direction to help her and ourselves. We would appreciate any input you may have. P.S.: I apologize for the rather unorganized fashion in which I presented my information and insights. I guess my confusion on this matter has definitely invaded my own usually organized thought processes. Thanks for taking the time to read this and hopefully responding. Dr. Heller’s Answer: Many addiction specialists advise treating the substance problems first and then the BPD. I disagree very strongly because most treat their BPD symptoms with something that works for their dysphoria, no matter how self-destructive. Ive treated countless borderlines who failed AA and treatment programs for this reason. Treating the BPD is no guarantee that the alcoholic will stop drinking, but it dramatically improves their chances. Making all the medically treatable diagnoses and treating them comprehensively remains crucial, thats why I always have my patients do the screening test: (http://pks.947.myftpupload.com/screen.htm). Getting an individual with the BPD to seek help is virtually always a challenge. It helps to understand that they are hurting and that the disease it not their fault. This is often of help: http://pks.947.myftpupload.com/AskDoc/q1.htm). 
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