Borderline personality disorder is characterized by impulsive behavior, unstable relationships, and changing self-perception. Symptoms include risky behavior, rocky interpersonal relationships, and a changing sense of self-identity. It is often misdiagnosed and can co-occur with other mental health issues. Diagnosis requires the presence of at least five symptoms that severely impact daily functioning.
Borderline personality disorder is a condition that is most commonly diagnosed by the presence of several symptoms related to an individual’s impulsive behaviors, relationship patterns, and self-perception. Symptoms of impulsivity related to borderline personality disorder might include potentially self-harming behaviors. A person with this disorder will usually have a personal history of unstable relationships. He or she may experience a changing self-image that is easily affected by external events. Symptoms of borderline personality disorder affect every aspect of an individual’s life, including occupational or academic functioning and interpersonal relationships.
One of the most common symptoms is a pattern of rocky interpersonal relationships. An individual with this disorder might experience a rapidly changing view of significant others. Lacking the ability to see others in shades of gray, the individual may initially believe a new acquaintance is perfect but later see the same person as unworthy. The fear of being alone can lead the individual to cling inappropriately to others. Instead, he may adopt a denial attitude in an attempt to prevent possible abandonment.
Impulsive and potentially self-harming behavior is another of the most common symptoms of borderline personality disorder. A person with this disorder might often engage in risky behavior that could lead to bodily harm or other serious consequences, such as reckless driving, gambling, or unprotected sex. Impulsivity could also manifest as a tendency to express anger inappropriately, which could negatively affect social interactions or even lead to physical fights. These impulsive behaviors could become more severe in less structured settings.
Another common symptom of borderline personality disorder is the frequent change in an individual’s sense of self-identity. The person may over-identify with significant others due to an inability to define their own values, goals, and preferences. Instability of self-concept can lead to numerous disruptions in work life and personal relationships. Low self-esteem could also occur in relation to an individual’s indefinite sense of self.
Typically, symptoms of borderline personality disorder appear in early adulthood. A diagnosis of borderline personality disorder requires the ongoing presence of at least five symptoms that severely impact daily functioning. Symptoms of borderline personality disorder must be distinguished from the effects of a medical condition or medication.
Borderline personality disorder can sometimes be confused with other types of personality disorders, such as histrionic personality disorder or antisocial personality disorder. Additionally, borderline personality disorder frequently occurs alongside other mental health issues, including mood disorders, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, and substance abuse. Personality disorders are usually diagnosed by a psychiatrist or other mental health professional with specialized training. General practitioners or family doctors typically do not have the appropriate background to accurately diagnose or treat borderline personality disorder.
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