Managing Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) can be challenging, but incorporating technology into one’s daily routine can be invaluable. Diary card apps offer a convenient way to track emotions, thoughts, and behaviours, helping individuals with BPD monitor progress and identify triggers. This review will compare and evaluate five popular diary card apps for BPD management.
DBT Diary Card & Skills Coach (iOS) Rating: 4.5/5
This app is developed by Durham DBT, Inc., and incorporates Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) techniques. The user-friendly app offers users a comprehensive list of DBT skills to practice and track. It features daily reminders, allowing users to maintain a consistent routine, and the data can be easily exported for sharing with therapists.
Pros:
- Comprehensive DBT skill list
- Daily reminders
- Easy data export for sharing
Cons:
- Available only for iOS devices
- No free version
eMoods Bipolar & BPD Mood Tracker (Android, iOS) Rating: 4/5
eMoods is designed for tracking mood swings associated with BPD and bipolar disorder. It offers a simple interface, allowing users to track emotions, sleep, medications, and other relevant data points. Users can view trends in a graphical format, helping them understand patterns in their moods and triggers.
Pros:
- Simple user interface
- Tracks multiple data points
- Available on both Android and iOS
Cons:
- Limited DBT skill tracking
- Data export limited to premium version
Daily Mood Tracker & Diary (Android, iOS) Rating: 4.5/5
Daylio is a versatile mood tracker and diary app that can be customized to suit the needs of individuals with BPD. The app tracks emotions, activities, and thoughts and provides insightful statistics and trends. Daylio offers a user-friendly interface and customizable reminders to keep users engaged.
Pros:
- Highly customizable for BPD-specific needs
- User-friendly interface
- Available on both Android and iOS
Cons:
- No built-in DBT skill tracking
- Some features locked behind a paywall
Moodpath: Depression & Anxiety Test (Android, iOS) Rating: 3.5/5
Moodpath is an app designed to screen for symptoms of depression and anxiety, which can often co-occur with BPD. The app offers daily assessments, mood tracking, and personalized insights. While Moodpath is not specifically designed for BPD, it can still be a valuable tool for understanding emotional patterns and identifying potential triggers.
Pros:
- Daily assessments and personalized insights
- Available on both Android and iOS
Cons:
- Not specifically tailored for BPD
- Limited tracking and DBT skill features
DBT Travel Guide (iOS) Rating: 4/5
DBT Travel Guide is an app a certified DBT therapist developed to provide a comprehensive tool for practicing and tracking DBT skills. The app offers step-by-step guidance for each skill and a diary card feature for monitoring progress. The app’s design is minimalist and easy to navigate.
Pros:
- Developed by a certified DBT therapist
- Comprehensive skill guidance
- Simple and minimalist design
Cons:
- Available only for iOS devices
- No mood-tracking features
- Limited customization options
Selecting the right diary card app for managing Borderline Personality Disorder depends on individual needs and preferences. If you are looking for a comprehensive DBT skill-based app, the DBT Diary Card & Skills Coach and DBT Travel Guide are solid choices. However, if mood tracking and customization are more important to you, Daylio and eMoods Bipolar & BPD Mood Tracker offer more flexibility. For those interested in tracking depression and anxiety symptoms alongside BPD, Moodpath may be a suitable option.
Always consult with a mental health professional to determine the best course of action for your specific situation, as these apps are intended to be used as supplementary tools, not as a substitute for professional care.
