Prognosis

Prognosis

Longitudinal studies have questioned the stable nature of personality disorder symptoms over time. For example, most people with borderline personality disorder (BPD) will experience some decline in symptoms during adulthood.[126][127]​ In clinical samples, about 85% of people with BPD will no longer meet the threshold for diagnosis within 10 years of longitudinal follow-up.[126][128]​​ However, specific symptoms may persist, and the 10-year course of borderline personality disorder is characterised by severe and persistent impairment in social functioning, and so ongoing treatment may be needed.[14][126]​​ Symptoms are often exacerbated in response to stressors. Personality disorders have been shown to respond to treatment, particularly if relatively intensive treatment is provided over an extended time frame.[129] 

BPD is associated with an increased risk of death due to suicide as well as with increased all-cause mortality, although rates of suicide attempts and episodes of self-harm decline over time.[130][131]​​​[132]

Impact of diagnosis

Care must be exercised in both establishing and documenting personality disorder diagnosis, because of the meaning and social stigma associated with this diagnosis.

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