Abstract
Introduction
Internationally, many individuals diagnosed with BPD continue to experience stigma within healthcare and are more likely to be viewed as manipulative and evoke negative responses from clinicians, compared with other mental health consumers.
Aim/Question
To understand Australian consumer perspectives regarding BPD management, and how these have changed between 2011‐2017. To comment on how NHMRC BPD Guidelines, released 2013, are faring in practice.
Method
Individuals who identified a BPD diagnosis completed a 75‐question survey, delivered online Australia‐wide, in 2011 (N=153) and 2017 (N=424), providing comparative datasets to evaluate changes in consumer perspective on BPD management.
Results
Many people diagnosed with BPD experience difficulties when seeking help, stigma within health services, and barriers to treatment. Improved general awareness, communication, and understanding of BPD from consumers and health professionals were evident.
Discussion
Consumers demonstrated increased BPD‐literacy and help‐seeking behaviours in 2017, providing opportunity for health professionals to build stronger therapeutic relationships. Widespread practical implementation of the Guidelines does not appear to have been achieved. More health professional education, updated Guidelines, funding and strategies to embed these Guidelines into practice are needed.
Implications for Practice
Mental health nurses regularly provide care to people diagnosed with BPD; with practical education and support, they and other health professionals can improve their confidence in practice and provide better quality care to consumers.