BPD Dialogues Group
The BPD Dialogues Group is a unique initiative that brings together individuals with a diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) who have firsthand experience using NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde services.
BPD Dialogues Group
Established in February 2020, the group’s mission is to advocate for and contribute to the improvement of mental health services for those with BPD, amplifying voices of lived experience and fostering open dialogue on this complex diagnosis. The name “BPD Dialogues” was chosen by group members to reflect the diversity of perspectives around BPD diagnosis. Our group prioritises a respectful space where all views are valued, working to increase understanding and awareness while actively partnering with the NHS to influence service improvements.
Key Resources and Projects
‘Borderline & Beyond’ Leaflet
The BPD Dialogues Group collaborated with NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde and the Mental Health Network to create the ‘Borderline and Beyond’ leaflet. Developed by individuals with lived experience of BPD, this resource offers clear and accessible information on topics including:
Understanding the BPD diagnosis
Causes and development of BPD
Symptoms and therapeutic approaches
Self-management tips and strategies
Navigating mental health services within NHS GGC
This leaflet is available on the My Mental Health App and website, accessible through a QR code. Physical copies have also been distributed to Community Mental Health Teams and Adult Mental Health Wards across Glasgow.
Events and Conferences
BIGSPD Conference Award
In June 2024, the BPD Dialogues Group was honored at the British and Irish Group for the Study of Personality Disorder (BIGSPD) Conference in Belfast. Our poster presentation, ‘Borderline & Beyond: Impact of a Lived Experience Information Leaflet,’ received the “Capacity to Inform and Engage” award, recognizing our innovative approach and commitment to co-production with the NHS.
Training and Collaboration
Training and Collaboration
The BPD Dialogues Group collaborates with NHS trainers to incorporate lived experience perspectives into personality disorder training programs for staff. Our group has developed a series of training videos, answering questions like:
What is it like to live with BPD?
How did the diagnosis impact you?
What has helped in your recovery journey?
These efforts ensure that those with BPD have a voice in shaping the training and practices of the NHS staff they interact with.
Join the BPD Dialogues Group
We welcome individuals with a BPD diagnosis who have experience with NHS GG&C mental health services, including Community Mental Health Teams, Emergency Care, STEPPS programs, DBT, or MBT therapies. If you’re interested in joining, please contact Michelle McBride at michelle@mhngg.org.uk.
Scottish Personality Disorder Network: Personality and the ‘personality disorder’ diagnosis – Part 1
This video examines the definition of personality disorder. You’ll learn what the diagnostic process entails and what critiques of the diagnosis are.
Scottish Personality Disorder Network: Seeing human beings and promoting better interactions – Part 2
This animation explores the human experiences of people with the ‘personality disorder’ diagnosis and those of people working in caring roles. This video promotes empathy and seeing one another as human beings.
Scottish Personality Disorder Network: Living with a ‘personality disorder’ diagnosis – Part 3
This animation explores some experiences of receiving the ‘personality disorder’ diagnosis, and of living with the experiences and difficulties associated with ‘personality disorder’. Stigma around the diagnosis is explored. Hope for improved mental health is promoted, and emphasized as a real possibility.
We are a community-driven network made up of individuals and carers with lived experience of mental health challenges. We understand how difficult it can be to navigate a mental health system that is often overstretched, with long waiting times and limited resources.
At times, finding the right support can feel overwhelming. That’s why we are here to connect you with compassionate, supportive organisations that can guide you through these challenges.
Groups
Social Media
Contact
Mental Health Network Greater Glasgow (SCIO)
Suite 11, Templeton House, Templeton Business Centre, 62 Templeton Street Glasgow G40 1DA
Phone:
0141 550 8417
Email:
info@mhngg.org.uk
