I Hate You — Don't Leave Me by Jerold J. Kreisman, Hal Straus cover

I Hate You — Don't Leave Me

Understanding the Borderline Personality

by Jerold J. Kreisman, Hal Straus

4.6(6,199 ratings)
14 min read

Brief overview

This book explores the complexities of borderline personality, highlighting why individuals may oscillate between intense emotional states and impulsive decisions. It offers encouraging insights into how these conflicts can be better understood, managed, and eventually overcome. By laying out relatable stories, it underscores a practical roadmap toward stability and healthier relationships.

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Introduction

Life can feel like a whirlwind when someone lives with borderline personality traits. Every minor event can trigger deep emotions, and friendships or romantic ties may seem to shift rapidly. This startling lack of stability often fuels confusion and frustration for both the individual and those closest to them.

In this introduction, we look at why an understanding of borderline personality is so crucial. Learning about its patterns helps reduce blame, shame, and fear, making space for some measure of compassion. It also empowers people to identify key symptoms, reflect on their struggles, and take those first mindful steps toward healthier living.

There is no magic fix. Instead, it all starts with a small spark of curiosity: Why do I react this way? How can I regain control in a moment of emotional turmoil? This willingness to explore can be the cornerstone for new strategies—to respond rather than explode, to problem-solve rather than self-punish, and to gradually heal the cracks within.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the intense rollercoaster of borderline traits, you are not alone. The pages that follow provide a warm, encouraging look at self-awareness tools, therapy approaches, and the potential for brighter possibilities.

The Emotional Rollercoaster

One of the defining markers of borderline personality is the sheer force of emotion that can erupt with little warning. The momentary, everyday difficulties—like not getting a text back—can feel like an emergency about one’s worth or future.

Some describe it as being on a constant high alert. A small disagreement morphs into a tidal wave of anger, or a fleeting disappointment plunges them into sorrow. With such limited emotional “brakes,” each up or down can overflow into damaging words or impulsive actions.

Over time, these rapid shifts in mood can hamper work, schooling, or social ties. Loved ones may become wary of how to respond, uncertain whether gentle reassurance or firmer boundaries will help. This dynamic heightens the sense of isolation for both sides.

Learning mindful pause is a powerful anchor when emotions surge.

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What is I Hate You — Don't Leave Me about?

“I Hate You — Don’t Leave Me: Understanding the Borderline Personality” presents a compassionate, thorough exploration of borderline personality disorder from Jerold J. Kreisman and Hal Straus. Through practical insights, real-life accounts, and research-backed findings, the authors illustrate why emotional upheavals and impulsive actions occur, and how readers can recognize and manage these patterns in day-to-day life.

The book sheds light on what drives the fear of abandonment and mood swings commonly seen in BPD. By providing a clear outline of therapy options and coping methods, it empowers individuals, families, and professionals alike to address these turbulent experiences with empathy. Readers will discover that while BPD can be challenging, understanding its roots forms a path to meaningful change.

Review of I Hate You — Don't Leave Me

One of the book’s strengths is its balance between deep clinical knowledge and user-friendly explanations, ensuring accessibility for readers beyond a traditional medical background. Each page dives into why individuals with BPD may struggle with self-image and impulsive behaviors, offering real-life examples and helpful exercises. These sections aren’t just theory—they give readers immediate strategies that can be applied to build healthier relationships and develop greater emotional resilience.

The authors’ writing style is direct yet empathetic, making complex content relatable without sacrificing accuracy. Whether you’re a caregiver, a mental health professional, or someone living with BPD, the guidance on therapy approaches like DBT is presented with clarity. In the end, “I Hate You — Don’t Leave Me” is highly recommended for anyone seeking an informed perspective on borderline personality and the practical steps needed to foster stability and hope.

Who should read I Hate You — Don't Leave Me?

  • Individuals who suspect they have BPD or have recently been diagnosed
  • Mental health professionals looking for additional insights on borderline personality
  • Family members or friends wanting to support a loved one with BPD
  • Students studying psychology or social work in need of a reliable reference
  • Anyone seeking a clearer understanding of emotional regulation and better coping strategies

About the author

Dr. Jerold J. Kreisman is a psychiatrist and author with over 51 years of experience in the medical field. He graduated from Cornell University and is an associate clinical professor at St. Louis University, designated as a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He has co-authored several books on borderline personality disorder, including "Sometimes I Act Crazy" and "Talking to a Loved One with Borderline Personality Disorder," in addition to "I Hate You — Don't Leave Me." Hal Straus is his co-author on "I Hate You — Don't Leave Me" and "Sometimes I Act Crazy."

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