A systematic review and meta-analysis of digital interventions targeted at individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD), emotionally unstable personality disorder (EUPD), and related symptoms

J Clin Psychol. 2023 Sep;79(9):2155-2185. doi: 10.1002/jclp.23523. Epub 2023 Apr 26.

Abstract

Objectives: The present review investigates the impact of digital interventions for individuals with features of borderline personality disorder (BPD)/emotional unstable personality disorder (EUPD) as digital interventions show promise as therapeutic tools in underserved groups. BPD/EUPD features are identified as clinically relevant, yet previous reviews on the use of digital interventions fail to include subthreshold symptomatology.

Methods: Five online databases were searched for terminology in three categories: BPD/EUPD and related symptoms, mental-health interventions, and digital technology. Additionally, four relevant journals and two trial registers were searched for additional papers meeting the inclusion criteria.

Results: Twelve articles met all inclusion criteria. Meta-analyses revealed statistically significant differences in symptom measures between intervention and control groups at postintervention and decreases in BPD/EUPD symptomatology and well-being from pre- to postintervention. Service users' engagement, satisfaction, and acceptability of interventions were high. Results support the previous literature on the value of using digital interventions in populations with BPD/EUPD.

Conclusion: Overall, it was identified that digital interventions show promise for successful implementation with this population.

Keywords: borderline personality disorder; digital interventions; emotional unstable personality disorder; information and communication technology; mental health; online interventions.

Publication types

  • Meta-Analysis
  • Systematic Review
  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Borderline Personality Disorder* / psychology
  • Humans
  • Mental Health
  • Mental Health Services*