DHH Book Corner: What we’re reading now

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The Buddha and the Borderline: My Recovery from Borderline Personality Disorder through Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Buddhism, and Online Dating

“I’m not usually a fan of memoirs, but this book is an awesome empathy-builder for a highly stigmatized personality disorder. Kiera gives fantastic descriptions of her emotional experience of some of her worst days, demystifying some of the most confusing aspects of borderline personality disorder (BPD). She teaches us what she learns about BPD, DBT, and mindfulness as she is searching for her own answers. It is refreshing to have a non-clinical perspective, but she has done her homework to say the least! As an advocate, she also speaks directly about stigma not only from the general public, but also from the health care world, and she discusses how the stigma impacts her. I definitely recommend this book for anyone looking for perspective or wanting to know more about BPD.” --Jessica Chavolla, MS, LPC

“It is not often that the public gets an honest depiction of what it is like to have Borderline Personality Disorder. Consequently, most individuals with BPD are unable to put their finger on what they are experiencing. Kiera helps readers reframe a disorder historically met with confusion and distaste into something that readers can empathize with and respect. We read raw and poignant details about Kiera’s past trauma and how her disorder manifests in her present day reality as an adult struggling with self-harm, volatile relationships, and an overwhelming sense of emptiness. Most importantly, Kiera shows us that recovery and management of BPD is possible.” --Anna Zapata, MS, LPC

“You feel an immediate connection with Kiera as she takes you into her world and life with BPD. The narrative nature of the book provides an immersive experience for the reader and gives incredible insight to an often-misunderstood diagnosis. As a mental health professional, the timeline of the book provided a reality check on the true understanding of mental health even within the profession. I found myself feeling frustrated often and advocating for Kiera from my living room as she struggled with life pre-diagnosis. Professionals and laymen alike should give this book a read for insight and understanding into a first-hand experience of the diagnosis of BPD and the impact it has on everyday functioning and relationships.” --Rachel Tweed, MS, LPC

“Before beginning this book, I was curious about how BPD would be explained, considering the stigmas surrounding the disorder. Kiera does an amazing job of allowing the reader in on the intimate and very vulnerable details about how she manages her mental health. Several times throughout the book, I found myself reflecting on how I respond and interact with clients as their mental health professional. Oftentimes, we aren’t privy to the comprehensive thoughts, emotions, or behaviors as they are presented in the book. Kiera’s continued efforts to fight for herself and to provide insight for others is more than encouraging.” --Lakeita Roberts, MS, LPC

Be sure to stay on the lookout for what our counselors are reading next!