To identify clinical and sociodemographic characteristics of people with BPD in secondary care mental health service.

29 individuals (27 women and 2 men, average age 32.8 years) with a diagnosis of BPD treated within secondary care services from 1st January to 31st December 2010.

96.5% of the clients were on a combination of psychotropics; 93% on antidepressants; 82% on anxiolytics; 72.4% on antipsychotics; 55% on hypnotics; 38% on mood stabilisers; and 24% taking other medication. All had a co-morbid axis-I disorder; moreover 55% of subjects had two, and 14% three co-morbidities. Substance misuse (44.8%), “neurotic” disorders (41.4%), depression (27.6%); and eating disorders (13.8%) were the most common co-morbidities. 55% disclosed a history of a sexual abuse. 60% had been assessed, and 40% detained under the MHA 1983. 96.5% were admitted to hospital, with the average length of admission of 41 days. 68% admitted ≥2 times; and on average, each client had a history of 3 admissions within a year. 90% had basic education and were unemployed. All patients had a history of a suicide attempt; 90% requiring an assessment at the A&E; 80% attending the A&E ≥2 times; and on average clients attended the A&E 5 times a year. One patient died as a result of hanging.

People with BPD represent one of the most challenging groups of patients, with multiple needs. Polypharmacy and co-morbidity is very widespread. They are one of the most frequent consumers of emergency services, requiring immediate medical and psychiatric input.