This thesis explored the experience of inpatient mental health care from the perspective of individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). The literature review synthesised the findings from 11 qualitative studies that reported on experiences of inpatient stays. The process elicited five main themes; (1) positions of control; (2) a volatile environment; (3) negative attitudes and responses; (4) the impact of negative attitudes and responses; (5) the absence but importance of talking. The findings suggest that inpatient services can provide the safety, security and support people with a diagnosis of BPD desire. However, they can also repeat unpleasant experiences of the past and therefore trigger distress and contribute to several difficulties associated with this personality disorder. The research study employed a qualitative Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis design to investigate the experiences of discharge from inpatient services. The aim was to explore how and why these experiences have an impact on this client group. Four superordinate themes emerged: (1) from a protective to an isolated space; (2) tensions around accessing support; (3) withholding the truth and guarding the true self; (4) a perpetuation of previous loss. The findings suggest that the transition from hospital to the community can be difficult for people with a diagnosis of BPD. Further difficulties can occur following discharge as a result of experiencing tension between wanting and resisting support. An unwillingness to share true thoughts and feelings can lead to distress and this can be made worse by the overall discharge experience that seems to remind some of previous experiences of loss. The critical review detailed a number of important issues that arose during the completion of this thesis. It also included an evaluation of the research study and discussions that arose from personal reflections.