Signs of Borderline Personality Disorder

Borderline personality disorder is a mental illness characterized by mood swings, impulsive behavior and unstable interpersonal relationships. Although signs of borderline personality disorder may appear at a young age, it usually doesn't become apparent until early adulthood. People with this disorder usually have a low self-image. They may also suffer from other conditions, such as depression. Borderline personality can also be characterized by intense emotions, with fear sometimes bordering on paranoia. According to WebMD.com, about two out of 100 people have borderline personaity disorder.

Relationships

• People with borderline personality disorder have difficulty maintaining relationships at work, at home and in every aspect of life. Feelings shift dramatically, and borderline-personality sufferers are often demanding and have unreasonably high expectations of others. They feel as if they are being abandoned if others do not meet their demands or expectations.

Anger and Aggression

• People with borderline personality disorder often have outbursts of anger. They display aggressive behavior, such as striking out at others physically. They have difficulty controlling their anger.

Impulsive Behavior

• Individuals who suffer from borderline personality disorder may engage in self-destructive or impulsive behavior, such as excessive spending, reckless driving, promiscuity or substance abuse.

Self-Worth

• Low self-worth is another trait of those who suffer from borderline personality disorder. An individual with this disorder may tend to alter his personality to adjust to those he is around, shifting according to each person or group of people.

Stress and Anxiety

• Sufferers of borderline personality disorder often experience stress-related conditions, such as panic attacks. They also experience depression and a feeling of emptiness.

Self-Harm

• People with borderline personality disorder may cause harm to themselves or others. They may threaten to commit suicide, and may even attempt it. Any suicidal threats or tendencies should be taken seriously and appropriate help should be sought.