BPD Awareness Week 2025-1 in 10: Uniting for Change
DBT-LBC™ is excited to spread awareness about BPD and promote high quality DBT treatment beyond US borders. To begin, we are highlighting BPD Awareness Week in Australia which spans October 1st through October 7th. Our intention is to continue promoting collaboration to reduce stigma, support DBT practitioners and empower clients suffering with BPD to find hope and healing with effective care. While this is our first primary focus on BPD and DBT in Australia, it certainly won’t be our last!
*Content warning – mentions suicide*
From October 1 to 7, Australia observes borderline personality disorder (BPD) Awareness Week-a time to shine a light on one of the most misunderstood and stigmatized mental health conditions.
This year’s theme is more than just a message-it’s a powerful call to action. Clinicians, individuals, communities, services, and policymakers are being urged to come together and drive systemic change. Why? Because the current support systems often fall short for those living with BPD-and for the carers, families, and friends who walk alongside them.
The Reality Behind the Diagnosis
Australian research indicates that 1 in 10 suicides in the state of Victoria are linked to symptoms consistent with a diagnosis of BPD. It’s a confronting figure-and one that underscores the urgent need for reform.
Yet, even with statistics like this, people living with BPD are still too often overlooked, dismissed, or misunderstood within the mental health system. Many face invalidating environments, where outdated and harmful myths persist-such as the belief that “people with BPD don’t get better” or that they’re “manipulative” or “attention-seeking.”
These narratives are not only untrue-they are dangerous. They contribute to stigma, delay treatment, and deepen the emotional pain of those already struggling.
Time for Compassion, Time for Change
BPD is a complex condition, but it is treatable, and recovery is possible. With the right support, people with BPD can lead fulfilling, connected, and meaningful lives.
That’s why BPD Awareness Week is so important. It’s an opportunity to start honest conversations, challenge stigma, and demand better, not just in words, but through action. Together, we can push for timely, evidence-based, and compassionate care.
Let’s not settle for awareness alone. Let’s push for understanding. Let’s advocate for change. And most importantly, let’s stand with those living with BPD, and their support networks, not just this week, but every week.
The Good News!
If you’re looking for treatment support in Australia, you can find a DBT-LBC™ certified clinician here.
If you’re supporting or caring for someone living with BPD looking for support, you can find resources at Australia BPD Foundation Limited including information on the Family Connections program, a free support group for carer’s and loves ones of those living with BPD.
