Self-hatred, or self-loathing, is a common and painful experience for people with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and related disorders. However, none of the major treatments specifically target this symptom. Treating severe, chronic self-loathing can be challenging for the clinician and disheartening for the patient, as standard approaches are often ineffective.
Dr. Blaise Aguirre looks at the nature and presentation of self-loathing, considers its development in people living with BPD and related conditions, reviews the literature on the topic, and suggests some approaches to consider in tackling the experience of self-hatred.