The keys to recovery from Borderline Personality Disorder…

1. Do not expect those who don’t have a mental illness to be any more stable than you or have the answers.

2. Don’t expect anyone to do anything for you. Instead go out and get what you want.

3. Accept loneliness. 

4. Expect misunderstanding. Don’t let it destroy you.

5. Do not isolate yourself, but be independent.

6. Expect the stigma. Educate those who care and don’t worry about those that don’t. 

7. Put your recovery first. Work on it everyday. 

8. Don’t let others define you. You are the only one who knows you and your disease fully.

9. Understand that you are NOT a monster, or a bitch, or manipulative, or a liar and don’t let people label you as such.

10. Know that you have a BRAIN disorder with biological, chemical, psychological, and genetic factors involved. You did not invent your symptoms and it is NOT your fault for having. It is your responsibility for dealing with them though. 

11. Take responsibility for your health. I know that it is so difficult to get help for yourself when the whole world seems to be against mental health, but fight for it. If your town doesn’t have DBT, sign up for one online. Be proactive.

12. Know that you CAN and WILL get better if you work hard enough. DBT is tough and it takes a lot of work, but it pays off. You have to believe that.

13. Know that YOU ARE WORTH IT. You deserve a happy life. 

14. Stay strong <3