The Experiences of Women with a Diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Using Sensory Modulation Approaches in an Inpatient Mental Health Rehabilitation Setting

Abstract

Sensory approaches are being used increasingly within in-patient mental health, however, few published studies into the service user perspective exist. This interpretative phenomenological study used semi-structured interviews with four women with a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder (BPD) to provide insight into the benefits and applicability of sensory strategies in a mental health rehabilitation setting and their part in the recovery process. Four superordinate themes were identified: barriers to using sensory strategies; emotion regulation; impact of the environment; and empowerment. While preliminary in nature this study highlighted the need for an individualized approach and transferability of strategies into the community.