All In The Mind How borderline personality disorder makes it harder to hold down a job
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Oct 25, 2025 Rosie Cappucino, a teacher and author diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, shares her journey of navigating career challenges and the impact of work on her recovery. Dr. Suzanne Dawson, an occupational therapist, discusses practical advice for managing BPD in the workplace, including tips on disclosure and wellness planning. They explore the stigma surrounding BPD, the emotional turmoil it can bring, and how therapy and DBT skills facilitate employment successes. Both guests highlight the importance of finding purpose and stability through work.
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From Sailboat Childhood To Crisis And Recovery
- Enya described escalating emotional swings, self-harm, and suicidal crises that began in her teens and intensified into her twenties.
- She stopped working at 30, did nine months off for body dysmorphia, then spent a year in DBT to recover and return to work.
Emotional Sensitivity Drives Job Instability
- BPD's emotional sensitivity often causes job churn via shame, avoidance, substance use, or sudden absences that break employment momentum.
- These patterns mean interventions must target early warning signs and practical supports to sustain work.
Be Strategic About Disclosing Mental Health
- Avoid disclosing specific diagnostic labels at work; instead describe how a mental health condition affects your job and what supports help.
- Focus discussion on concrete impacts and accommodations rather than the diagnosis to reduce stigma.