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Learn DBT Skills In A Group
Weekly sessions are available. Grouport offers therapist-led dialectical behavior therapy skills groups online. The first 12 weeks covers fundamental DBT skills.
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Emotions are complicated, and when a severe mental illness like Borderline personality disorder (BPD) impacts how other people see you, it's important to understand why certain phenomenon occur. Characterized by pervasive features like unstable moods, interpersonal relationships, self-image, and behavior, many also note that "BPD Eyes" are another common symptom of the disorder.
BPD eyes, often referred to as "empty eyes," has sparked curiosity among observers and researchers alike. For many, perceived social differences can contribute to the negative impacts of BPD, including family and work life, long-term planning, and self-identity issues. Read on to learn what this phenomenon means and how it impacts people with BPD.
While not a medical term, "BPD eyes" is often used to describe a common observable characteristic within the BPD community. Many observers note that there can be a void or absence of emotional depth perceived in the eyes of those suffering from this disorder. This phenomenon is subjective—based on the perspective of outsiders rather than the person with BPD.
When a person with BPD is described as having "empty eyes," it could indicate their emotional turmoil. Emotional dysregulation, a key component of BPD, might present itself in this way. Individuals with BPD often experience intense and rapidly shifting emotions, like intense anger or fear of abandonment. This can make their expressions seem vacant or void during times when they disconnect from their emotions—a process known as dissociation.
However, speculation on these topics is why professional help is so important. Empty eyes might indicate emotional turmoil or BPD dissociation, but should be discussed with a licensed therapist.
Understanding the dissociation and emotional dysregulation that goes hand-in-hand with BPD is the key to decoding physical symptoms like "empty eyes." Let's demystify borderline personality disorder:
Dissociation, a common psychological mechanism employed by individuals with BPD, is an adaptive strategy to cope with overwhelming emotions. During dissociation, people disconnect from their thoughts, feelings, memories, or sense of identity. This might manifest as a "glazed-over" or "empty" look in their eyes, hence the term "empty eyes."
This phenomenon is also associated with depersonalization or derealization, where individuals feel detached from themselves or their surroundings. The world might seem dreamlike or unreal, and they may observe themselves from an outsider's perspective. This state can lead to confusion, disorientation, and the appearance of emotional emptiness.
Aside from unresponsive eyes, dissociation in BPD can present itself in a variety of ways. Here are some signs you or your loved one may be struggling:
BPD is also marked by intense emotional experiences that can be difficult to manage or regulate. When individuals with BPD try to manage these intense emotions, they may appear vacant, detached, or devoid of emotion, leading to the interpretation of "empty eyes." This is known as emotional dysregulation, and it can lead to rapid, severe shifts in mood, often without a clear trigger.
Many individuals with BPD describe an enduring sense of emptiness or hollowness, as if there's a void inside them. This internal experience may be mirrored in their outward appearance and expression. The "empty eyes" may also reflect chronic feelings of emptiness, a key symptom of BPD.
If you don't have BPD, you can never truly know the final thoughts of someone who does. With that in mind, the perception of "empty eyes" in individuals with BPD should never be mistaken for a lack of feeling or emotions.
In reality, the opposite is often true. BPD patients typically feel emotions more intensely and for more extended periods than others do. The appearance of emptiness may be more accurately viewed as a protective shield, guarding against an internal world of emotional turmoil, intensity, and impulsivity.
Understanding the "empty eyes" phenomenon in BPD contributes to a broader and deeper comprehension of the disorder. Rather than simply observing the external manifestation, it's essential to acknowledge the internal struggles of those with the disorder. By doing so, we pave the way for greater empathy, support, and effective treatment methods to help those living with BPD lead healthier, more fulfilling lives free from unnecessary pain and abandonment.
Those with BPD benefit from a therapy that respects their boundaries while allowing them to feel seen and heard. One of the biggest advantages of online therapy is its accessibility. After all, "BPD eyes" are often a symptom of being overwhelmed, and the long commutes, high costs, or limited availability of local therapists can contribute to negative symptoms.
Online therapy removes these obstacles, making professional mental health care more convenient and affordable. Additionally, individuals with BPD may feel more comfortable engaging in therapy in a way that makes them feel like they're holding the reins. Other benefits of online therapy include:
Grouport Therapy offers online Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) group sessions to support individuals coping with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).
This therapy approach utilizes mindfulness and acceptance to enhance self-awareness and emotional regulation, helping to reduce destructive behaviors and strengthen interpersonal connections. Our virtual group sessions instruct members on incorporating various psychotherapy techniques, such as DBT, into their everyday lives, enabling them to engage with others and express themselves more effectively. You can learn more about the structure of our DBT Skills groups here.
Our qualified therapists conduct weekly group meetings remotely, allowing members to participate from the comfort of their own homes. As reported by participants, 70% witnessed significant progress within 8 weeks.
You don't need to confront these obstacles by yourself. Enroll in one of our groups today to embark on a path toward substantial, enduring transformation and renewed optimism. Become part of our community and collaborate towards a more promising future.
At Grouport, we offer a variety of helpful treatments for those suffering from BPD, including individual and group sessions. Whether you need individual attention for anxiety, a closed group for family or couples therapy, or community-based support for PTSD and other challenges, there’s a research-backed service to fit your needs:
Want something more self-guided? Consider our DBT Self Guided Program. Learn Dialectical Behavior Therapy tools to manage emotions, reduce conflict, and improve relationships.
We offer DBT group therapy online to improve emotion regulation, distress tolerance, mindfulness, & interpersonal skills. Get effective and affordable treatment.
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