Development of a treatment model for mothers with borderline personality disorder at a new mother and baby unit in Perth, Western Australia

Abstract

RANZCP Keynote Abstract Background: Emotional dysregulation secondary to borderline personality disorder (BPD) can be exacerbated in the postnatal period, related to the developmental tasks of motherhood. In addition, infants of mothers with BPD often show a pattern of disorganized attachment that can further amplify maternal distress. There is limited research describing treatment models for BPD in the postnatal period. The Fiona Stanley Hospital Mother and Baby Unit (FSH MBU) is a new unit, offering multi-disciplinary psychiatric treatment for a broad range of mental health problems, in an inpatient setting, for women referred with their babies under the age of 1 year. Objectives: To examine the rate of referral and admission of mothers with BPD in comparison with mothers with other diagnoses admitted to the FSH MBU and to describe the development of an evidence-informed treatment model of care for this patient group. Methods: Retrospective case note audit of all admissions to the FSH MBU in its first 12 months (February 2015–2016), to examine psychosocial needs and outcomes and to correlate these with standardized screening tools. Furthermore, identification of treatment goals and treatment pathways for mothers with BPD will also be examined. Findings: Mothers with BPD are frequently referred for admission to the FSH MBU due to emotional dysregulation, comorbid depressive or anxiety disorders or complex social problems impacting their ability to cope with the care of their infants. They often face multifaceted challenges that require comprehensive assessment and care. Conclusions: Data collected and analysed will be essential to the understanding of the needs of these women and their families as well as necessary service provision. Collaboration between Australian MBUs with regard to further research and to refine current treatment models for this patient group is needed