Yes, They Have BPD in South Africa Too!

Episode Fourteen: Mel Jones & Dr. Serfer

In this episode, Dr. Gregory Serfer, author of "I Am Still Right Here," and Melanie Jones explore the complexities of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) through real-life experiences. Dr. Serfer narrates Mel's crisis story - which provides insightful perspective on how people see pwBPD. Mel resides in South Africa and the conversation aptly sets the stage for a raw, honest discussion on BPD's ups and downs, the lack of available support and it's impact, and common misunderstandings. They share clinical and firsthand insights on BPD misinterpretations, stress tolerance, and necessary healthcare changes for better diagnosis and support.

Disclaimer: The title of this podcast and its contents are not intended to in any way promote, encourage, or advocate suicide or any form of self-harm. If you or someone you know is contemplating suicide and needs support, please call 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Guests:

• Dr. Gregory Serfer & Melanie Jones

Mel's Email: emmjay993@yahoo.com

Gregory's Email: contact@gregoryserfer.com

Book: “I Am Still Right Here”: https://www.amazon.com/I-Am-Still-Right-Here/dp/B0BNTZBZFT

In this episode, you will hear:

• 0:00 Intro
• 1:07 Trigger Warning
• 1:31 Introduction to Melanie Jones (Mel) & Dr. Gregory Serfer
• 2:06 Mel’s Crisis Story narrated by Dr. Serfer

(Beginning of Interview)

• 7:35 Beginning of the Interview
• 10:06 Who Is Mel Jones?
• 11:13 Who is Dr. Serfer and What Is This Book?
• 14:20 Mel’s Journey: The Ups and Downs of BPD
• 17:53 The Lack of a Support System or Tribe and The BPD Monster Amongst Friends, Family, and Partners
• 22:22 Common Misunderstanding Amongst BPD
• 29:54 The Misreading of pwBPD by Others
• 37:31 Stress Tolerance for pwBPD
• 45:52 BPD Buddies
• 53:55 What needs to change in healthcare for BPD?
• 1:01:24 The Misunderstanding of BPD Diagnosis
• 1:03:25 Final Thoughts

(End of Interview)

• 1:12:07 Closing Statement from Nicole
• 1:12:28 BPD Daily Mantra
• 1:12:45 Outro
• 1:14:02 “Gold” by Austin Millz: https://open.spotify.com/track/5Dz6wdHlI45KAOBAfMSJRS

Episode Resources:

• Website: https://www.showmegrace.org/
  • Weekly Support Group & Career Coaching

Connect with the Host:

Nicole Darby: presspause4grace@gmail.com

Credits:

Host & Podcast Producer: Nicole Darby

Music Producer of Podcast’s Intro Music: DJtheIII

Sound Engineer: Stefan Mitroi

Research Team: Nicole Darby & Tamar Brignolle