If you’ve recognized any of the symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) in yourself or a friend – such as intense anger issues, mood swings, or problems with interpersonal relationships – you may be wondering if you actually have BPD.
Like anyone with access to the Internet, you may find yourself logging on to sites like WebMD to find out if you can make a self-diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder. You recognize traits of these BPD symptoms, so it shouldn’t be too difficult to diagnose, right?
Wrong. Actually, there is no official test – online or otherwise – that can definitively say if you have Borderline Personality Disorder. BPD is a very complicated psychiatric disorder that requires diagnosis by a treatment professional trained to assess and recognize the symptoms of BPD.
While there’s no doubt you will find online tests purporting to be able to let you know if you have Borderline Personality Disorder, the best thing you can do if you recognize BPD symptoms in yourself or a loved one is to seek professional BPD treatment.
Is it Easy to Diagnose BPD?
Because Borderline Personality Disorder is often misdiagnosed as other psychiatric disorders, including Bipolar Disorder, making a diagnosis of BPD is not always easy. Co-occurring disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or an eating disorder, can often mask the underlying BPD symptoms and make a diagnosis even more difficult.
To make a Borderline Personality Disorder diagnosis, a mental health treatment professional will use the nine diagnostic criteria set out in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). If at least five of the criteria apply to you, then a true BPD diagnosis can be made.
Can I Treat BPD on my Own?
Relying on a self-diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder may make you feel as though you can treat your BPD symptoms on your own. While you may be able to make small improvements without proper BPD treatment, the best way to manage your symptoms and make a full recovery is through professional Borderline Personality Disorder treatment.
Where Can I Find BPD Treatment?
If you think there’s a chance that you actually do have Borderline Personality Disorder, find a BPD treatment professional who can make a true diagnosis. Look online for treatment professionals in your area who specialize in Borderline Personality Disorder so that you can get an accurate diagnosis.
If you do have Borderline Personality Disorder, you may need to enter a residential, day, or outpatient treatment program for BPD. A BPD treatment program will give you the individualized therapy and support you need to learn how to manage your BPD symptoms. Ask for a recommendation from your therapist or psychiatrist and look around to find the BPD treatment program that you think will work best for you.