Rehab Treatment for Addiction and Borderline Personality Disorder

Castle Craig Residential Rehab Garden

Inpatient Treatment for Co-occurring Disorders

Castle Craig is a leading UK rehab centre providing specialist care for addiction and support for BPD challenges.
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Castle Craig specialises in dual diagnosis treatment, addressing complex conditions such as borderline personality disorder (BPD) paired with drug or alcohol addiction. As one of the UK’s longest-standing family-run drug and alcohol addiction rehab centres, we have been offering expert, integrated care for over 35 years. We truly understand the intricate connection between BPD and substance misuse challenges.

For those seeking comprehensive treatment for BPD and addiction, we provide dedicated support designed to address the challenges of co-occurring conditions. If you are exploring residential options for your well-being, contact Castle Craig today on 01721 546 263. If you are looking for more information on the relationship between BPD and substance misuse, or have questions about BPD’s impact on recovery, read on for more guidance.

What is Borderline Personality Disorder?

Borderline personality disorder, known as BPD, is a common mental health condition. It is a type of emotionally unstable personality disorder that can significantly affect a person’s personal and social well-being. Understanding its nature is a vital step toward seeking appropriate support and beginning a journey towards stability.

Personality disorders vary, and some people may not fit neatly into a single category. They might show signs of BPD alongside characteristics of other types. Recognising this complexity is important for a comprehensive approach to diagnosis and ongoing support.

What is BPD & Addiction as a Co-Occurring Disorder?

A co-occurring disorder, often called a dual diagnosis, means a person is living with both a mental health condition and a substance misuse issue simultaneously. For borderline personality disorder, or BPD, and addiction, this means the challenges of BPD exist alongside drug or alcohol dependence. These conditions interact, often making the symptoms of both more complex.

People with BPD may use substances to cope with intense emotions or impulsivity, creating a cycle where substance misuse worsens BPD symptoms. Comprehensive treatment requires addressing both the BPD and the addiction together, as each can influence the other’s progression and recovery. Having both BPD and a substance use disorder can be challenging, and seeking help can be even harder. Fortunately, treatment for addiction with BPD as a dual diagnosis is available in the UK.

Rehab for Substance Addiction and BPD

Worried about borderline personality disorder and drug or alcohol addiction? Call our residential treatment team today and start your path to recovery.
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Signs of Borderline Personality Disorder and Its Link to Addiction

In the UK, medical professionals diagnose borderline personality disorder based on a specific set of symptoms. These often include intense emotional swings, impulsive behaviours, unstable relationships and a distorted self-image. It is important to know that a person does not need to exhibit every single symptom to receive a diagnosis.

People can express many different behaviours and signs, including:

Negative thoughts and feelings

  • Variable mood or mood swings
  • Feeling empty or unworthy
  • Fear of abandonment
  • Difficulty accepting criticism
  • Unclear identity, including self-expression or sexual preference

Challenging behaviours

  • Creating intense and unstable relationships with others
  • Acts of self-harm
  • Outbursts of emotion
  • Being disruptive in social situations
  • Impulsive acts

Anyone might display symptoms associated with borderline personality on occasion. However, such instances alone do not diagnose BPD. A diagnosis hinges on a persistent pattern of instability in relationships, self-image and emotions, alongside marked impulsivity or self-harming behaviours. Characteristics include symptoms which are consistently intense and disruptive to daily life. They may be:

  • Present all the time, including in personal and social situations
  • Causing severe distress to the person experiencing them
  • Perceived by others as extreme or unusual
  • Still present and have been since childhood
  • Resulting in challenges like losing a job or a loved one

Free Assessment for BPD and Addiction

We offer free BPD and substance addiction assessments as part of our admissions process.

01721 546 263 Free Assessment

Relationship Between Borderline Personality Disorder and Substance Misuse 

People with borderline personality disorder (BPD) can be at a higher risk of developing an addiction. The intense emotional dysregulation and impulsivity often associated with BPD may lead to substance misuse as a coping mechanism. This can create a challenging cycle, where addiction might worsen BPD symptoms and vice versa. [2]

Addiction is when a harmful habit or behaviour becomes difficult to stop. There are substance and non-substance types of addiction. [3] Substance addiction refers to dependency on a harmful substance, such as drugs or alcohol. A non-substance addiction refers to an addiction to a certain behaviour, like gambling or shopping. There is a clear link between addiction and BPD, as around 78% of people with BPD may develop an addiction to drugs or alcohol at some point. Roughly 25% of people with addiction will have BPD. [2]

  • Common Addictions for People with BPD

    People living with borderline personality disorder can develop a range of addictive behaviours, encompassing both substance and non-substance addictions. This broad spectrum highlights the varied ways addiction may manifest when co-occurring with BPD, affecting different areas of a person’s life.

    Addictive substances generally fall into two categories: sedatives and stimulants. Some of these substances are legally prescribed medications, accessed through a doctor. Others are obtained illicitly, commonly referred to as street drugs. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the diverse nature of substance misuse.

    Sedative substances, which can lead to addiction for people with BPD, include alcohol and various opioids such as heroin, tramadol or oxycodone. Benzodiazepines like diazepam and Valium also fall into this category. Such substances depress the central nervous system, often creating a calming effect that can become dangerously addictive.

    People with BPD can also develop non-substance addictions, involving compulsive behaviours or habits rather than drug or alcohol misuse. This includes gambling addiction, gaming addiction or shopping addiction. Love or sex addiction and social media addiction are also common. Eating disorders can also represent a form of non-substance addiction.

  • Why BPD Can Lead to Substance Misuse

    It’s understandable to wonder why someone living with Borderline Personality Disorder might develop an addiction. Often, these behaviours begin as a way to cope with challenging symptoms. Addictive substances or activities can temporarily lessen negative feelings or intensify positive ones, providing a momentary escape from emotional distress.

    People with BPD may also experience higher rates of physical illness. In such cases, they might turn to substances seeking relief from physical discomfort, leading to a cycle of continuous self-medicating. This can unfortunately progress into drug misuse and ultimately addiction. Furthermore, a natural desire to boost mood, perhaps due to lower levels of certain euphoric signalling molecules, can also play a part.

    There’s a notable overlap between BPD and substance misuse, with many similarities between the two conditions. Certain symptoms of BPD, such as impulsivity and difficulty controlling mood, can directly contribute to and even worsen addictive behaviours. Research highlights this connection, with one study indicating that 42% of people with alcohol addiction also meet the criteria for BPD. [5]

Borderline Personality Disorder and Addiction Diagnosis

Having a dual diagnosis, also known as a co-occurring disorder, means a person has received a diagnosis for two separate conditions. Being diagnosed with borderline personality disorder alongside alcohol or drug addiction is one such dual diagnosis. A specialist doctor will conduct a thorough assessment, reviewing a person’s emotions, behaviours and thoughts, and discuss how certain symptoms have affected their life.

Before making any diagnoses, doctors will rule out other conditions. This might involve further consultations or medical investigations such as blood tests. Arriving at the correct diagnosis is crucial, as it allows people to receive the most appropriate and effective treatment for their co-occurring BPD and substance misuse challenges.

Treatment for Borderline Personality Disorder and Addiction

Many addiction treatment options exist for borderline personality disorder and co-occurring substance misuse. It is often beneficial for people with dual diagnoses to receive care at a medical facility. This environment can help manage complex symptoms more effectively during their recovery journey.

Addressing both BPD and addiction can be particularly challenging. A medical professional should always assess your needs before treatment begins. This helps confirm that appropriate support is in place. Recovery paths vary, and there is no quick cure, but with patience and time, you can learn to manage your conditions.

  • Dual Diagnosis Treatment for BPD and Addiction

    Dual diagnosis treatment is essential when Borderline Personality Disorder co-occurs with addiction. This integrated approach addresses both conditions simultaneously, recognising how they impact each other. Specialist teams work to unravel the complex connections between BPD symptoms and substance misuse, developing a cohesive strategy for healing.

    This type of care helps ensure that a person’s mental health challenges receive the same dedicated focus as their addiction recovery. Dual diagnosis treatment for BPD and addiction helps prevent a cycle where one condition worsens the other. It supports a more comprehensive and sustainable path to overall well-being.

  • Addiction Detox with Therapy for BPD Patients

    Detoxification is a crucial first step for many seeking help for BPD and addiction, particularly for substance misuse. It involves safely managing withdrawal symptoms under medical guidance. Combining detox with immediate therapeutic support is vital, as early counselling can address the emotional and psychological aspects of withdrawal from the outset.

    At Castle Craig, our medically managed detox services are fully integrated with early therapeutic interventions for BPD and addiction. We provide constant medical oversight to help people’s comfort during withdrawal. Our dedicated team helps people begin their therapeutic journey alongside detox, addressing underlying issues from the very start of their residential treatment.

  • Inpatient BPD and Addiction Treatment

    Inpatient residential addiction treatment provides a structured setting for people managing Borderline Personality Disorder alongside substance misuse. People reside at the facility full-time, benefiting from round-the-clock medical and therapeutic support. This immersive environment helps them focus completely on healing, away from daily triggers and pressures.

    Castle Craig offers private inpatient residential treatment in the Scottish Borders, providing integrated care for BPD and addiction. Our approach combines medical oversight with evidence-based therapies, all within a supportive and discreet environment. We provide a safe space where you can dedicate yourself to overcoming drug or alcohol addiction while addressing BPD.

  • Long-term Treatment for BPD and Addiction

    Long-term rehab treatment for borderline personality disorder and addiction is often crucial for sustained recovery. This extended period of care allows for deeper therapeutic work, helping people to develop robust coping mechanisms and regulate intense emotions. It supports the building of stable behaviours necessary for managing BPD and avoiding substance misuse.

    Extended residential treatment offers a consistent and supportive environment away from daily life’s complexities. It provides ongoing therapy and practical skill development to address the chronic nature of BPD and reduce relapse risk. People gain the time needed to fully integrate new strategies for a healthier, more balanced future.

  • Private Confidential BPD and Addiction Treatment

    Private confidential BPD and addiction treatment provides immediate access to specialised care, often without the waiting lists found elsewhere. This option provides a discreet and highly focused environment for recovery from substance misuse alongside Borderline Personality Disorder. You can expect a higher staff-to-patient ratio and a dedicated treatment plan.

    Castle Craig offers private rehab treatment in the Scottish Borders for BPD and addiction. We understand the importance of privacy for people addressing complex dual diagnoses. Our comprehensive residential addiction treatment is delivered with utmost discretion, providing a safe and focused space for your healing and long-term well-being.

  • Holistic Treatment for BPD and Addiction

    Holistic treatment approaches for borderline personality disorder and addiction address the whole person, integrating mind, body and spirit into the recovery process. This comprehensive method combines conventional therapies with complementary practices. It recognises that true healing requires attention to all aspects of a person’s well-being, promoting a balanced path to recovery from substance misuse.

    Castle Craig incorporates a holistic perspective into our residential treatment for BPD and addiction. Beyond core therapies, we offer complementary approaches such as mindfulness, art therapy and physical activity. We aim to support your overall well-being, helping you cultivate balance and inner peace as part of your comprehensive healing journey in the Scottish Borders.

Therapies for BPD and Addiction

Evidence suggests that treating both borderline personality disorder and addiction simultaneously significantly improves outcomes. Care typically involves two main approaches: pharmacological (using prescribed medications for symptoms) and psychological treatment. Psychological therapy, particularly dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), is often central, helping people recognise and manage harmful thoughts.

DBT can be delivered individually or in group settings, helping to develop a sense of community and motivating people towards their treatment goals. Professionals can also provide other forms of drug or alcohol treatment, based on a person’s specific needs. Examples include family therapy, trauma therapy, holistic practices or relapse prevention groups.

BPD and Addiction Co-Occurring Disorder Related Guides

Dual Diagnosis | Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Teens | Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Women | Dual Diagnosis Treatment for Men | Luxury Dual Diagnosis Rehab

Mental Health and BPD Related Guides

ADHD and addiction | Anxiety and addiction | Depression and addiction | OCD and addiction | Personality disorders and addiction | PTSD and addiction | Schizophrenia and addiction | Social anxiety and addiction | Eating disorders and addiction

How to Get Help for Addiction and BPD

If urgent help is needed for addiction and borderline personality disorder, phoning emergency services is vital. Suicide prevention charities also offer immediate support in your area. Speaking with a doctor is a valuable starting point. They can guide you or your loved one toward appropriate care and a safe path to recovery.

Residential rehab, particularly with a Consultant Psychiatrist guiding the clinical team, provides significant benefits for addiction complicated by BPD. People with co-occurring disorders will often benefit from a longer period in residential treatment. This allows their substance addiction and mental health challenges to receive comprehensive, focused care in a supportive environment.

Borderline Personality Disorder-Related Dual Diagnosis Treatment at Castle Craig

Our professionals at Castle Craig specialise in the residential treatment of co-occurring illnesses, including borderline personality disorder and substance misuse. We offer confidential and evidence-based care for drug or alcohol addiction alongside other dual diagnosis challenges. Our approach provides comprehensive support, recognising the complex interplay between conditions.

For your initial assessment, which helps us understand your situation, contact Castle Craig today. We can then discuss a suitable residential treatment plan that addresses your specific needs for well-being and recovery. Call us on 01721 546 263 to begin your journey towards lasting healing.

Castle Craig Rehab UK

Our Approach to BPD and Addiction Rehab

For over 35 years, Castle Craig has stood as a place of healing, assisting people in overcoming complex challenges like borderline personality disorder and co-occurring substance misuse. We focus on an integrated approach to care, where our expertise supports both mental well-being and addiction recovery simultaneously. Our methodology prioritises respect, progressive methods and excellence.

Call Now: 01721 546 263

Does Private Health Insurance Cover BPD and Addiction Treatment in the UK?

Yes, private health and medical insurance in the UK can cover BPD and addiction treatment. Coverage hinges on your specific policy, its level of benefits and any applicable exclusions. It is always advisable to review your policy documents thoroughly or contact your insurer directly. Understanding your benefits helps clarify what aspects of your residential treatment are included.

At Castle Craig, we accept authorised private health insurance for comprehensive residential addiction treatment involving BPD. Major insurers like Bupa, Aviva and Cigna may provide cover for our 28-day residential treatment and extended stays. Your policy could include support for medically managed detox and various dual diagnosis therapies. To discuss your options, please call your provider to explore your health insurance coverage for BPD and addiction treatment.

Contact Castle Craig Private Residential Rehab Centre

At Castle Craig, we deeply understand the complexities of Borderline Personality Disorder co-occurring with substance misuse. We specialise in comprehensive dual diagnosis treatment, integrating care for both conditions simultaneously. Our approach provides a structured and supportive environment where your interconnected challenges can be effectively addressed, guiding you toward stable well-being.

Taking the step towards healing can feel significant. We are here to talk through your needs and explain how our residential addiction treatment can help you or your loved one overcome BPD and substance misuse. To learn more about our integrated care and begin your journey, call us on 01721 546 263.

Confidential BPD and Addiction Assessment

Compassionate, expertly delivered evidence-based practices and a patient-centred approach are at the heart of our treatment model. Request a call-back from one of our professionals on any day of the week.

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