The main issue with diagnosing BPD is that its symptoms are similar to those of other mental disorders, making it difficult to identify. In addition, many people with BPD are unwilling or unable to seek treatment, so the condition often goes undetected.
The most common symptom of BPD is intense and unstable mood swings. These can last for several hours or even days at a time. People with BPD may also experience impulsive behaviors, such as spending too much money, engaging in risky sex, or binge eating. They may also have difficulty controlling their anger and may lash out at others without provocation.
Other symptoms of BPD include: chronic feelings of emptiness; fear of abandonment; difficulty maintaining healthy relationships; self-harm; and suicidal thoughts or attempts.
While these symptoms can be severe and debilitating, they can also be mistaken for other mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders. It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis so that you can receive the appropriate treatment. If you think you might have BPD, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional about your symptoms and concerns.
Bipolar disorder
The symptoms of bipolar disorder can be very different from person to person. Some people have mild symptoms, while others have severe symptoms. Symptoms can also vary over time, and from one episode to the next.
During a depressive episode, a person with bipolar disorder may feel sad or hopeless most of the time. They may lose interest in activities they used to enjoy, have trouble sleeping, and eat more or less than usual. They may also think about death or suicide.
During a manic episode, a person with bipolar disorder may feel overly happy or elated most of the time. They may talk faster than usual and be easily distracted. They may also take risks that they wouldn’t normally take, like spending too much money or having unprotected sex.
Bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition that can be difficult to manage. But with treatment, people with bipolar disorder can lead healthy and productive lives.
Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) is a condition that can develop in people who have experienced prolonged or repeated trauma. It is similar to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but there are some key differences.
People with C-PTSD often have a history of being exposed to multiple traumatic events, such as childhood abuse or neglect, domestic violence, war or torture. This exposure can lead to long-term changes in the brain and body that can make it difficult to cope with day-to-day life.
Symptoms of C-PTSD can include:
• flashbacks and intrusive memories of the trauma • nightmares and sleep problems • feeling constantly on edge and paranoid • hyper vigilance (being extremely alert to potential threats) • exaggerated startle response (jumping at sudden noises).
Depression
There are different types of depression, and while they share many common symptoms, they also have unique features. Major depression (also called major depressive disorder) is characterized by a combination of symptoms that interfere with your ability to work, study sleep, eat and enjoy life. An episode of major depression may occur only once in a person’s lifetime but more often it recurs throughout a person’s life. Chronic depressive disorder (also called dysthymia) is less severe but lasts longer than major depression-at least two years-and includes many of the same symptoms as major depression..
Psychosis
Psychosis is a mental disorder in which a person can not tell what is real from what is imaginary. People with psychosis may hear voices or see things that others do not. They may believe that other people are trying to harm them or control their thoughts. Psychosis is a serious mental illness that can be disabling and life-threatening. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent psychosis from getting worse and help people with psychosis lead productive lives.
Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD)
It is estimated that 1-2% of the population has antisocial personality disorder, which is more common in males than females. People with this disorder are often described as “psychopaths” or “sociopaths.” They may have a history of violence, criminal behavior, and/or substance abuse. They may be manipulative and charming and lack empathy for others.
People with antisocial personality disorder may have difficulty following rules or obeying laws. They may lie or cheat to get what they want. They may be aggressive, impulsive, and irritable. They may also act impulsively without considering the consequences of their actions.