How to Recognize Borderline Personality Disorder

Diagnosing borderline personality disorder (BPD) is complicated. Many symptoms are common to other disorders and we all exhibit them at some point. But it can be debilitating if symptoms are intense and have lasted for a long time. Consider these steps before getting a professional opinion about a loved one.

Instructions

• 1

  Take note of moods. People with borderline personality disorder tend to shift quickly from feeling high to low and back again. Unlike bipolar disorder, these moods last only a few hours or at most one day.

• 2

  Judge whether your partner is impulsive when it comes to money, sex or substance abuse. Reckless driving and eating binges can also signal BPD.

• 3

  Think about how your partner sees himself. Borderline personality sufferers have a distorted self-image that can swing from unworthiness to victimization. They frequently change jobs, homes, partners, friends, goals and values.

• 4

  Decide if your loved one suffers from "splitting." One moment the BPD sufferer will idolize and admire you, but her feelings can suddenly change to anger and disrespect. She can only see a black and white world.

• 5

  Gauge your partner's anger level during minor incidents. People with borderline personality disorder often get intensely angry in situations that don't warrant it. They may even get emotionally, verbally and physically abusive, so protect yourself and your children when necessary.

• 6

  Pay attention to how your partner reacts when you go on a trip without her. People with borderline personality disorder get angry or depressed when someone they feel attached to leaves even for a short time. A change in plans can also throw a BPD sufferer off.

• 7

  Stay alert for self-mutilation in your loved one. Recurring suicidal threats, especially when you have to leave him alone or disappoint his expectations, can signal borderline personality disorder.