If you recognize any of the symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) in yourself or a loved one, you may be tempted to make a diagnosis of the disorder yourself. With all of the information about BPD online, it has become easier to make a self-diagnosis.
But because BPD is such a complex disorder, instead of guessing that you have it based on your own research, you should seek the advice and treatment of a mental health professional. Only a licensed clinician or therapist should be relied upon to accurately diagnose BPD.
BPD Diagnostic Criteria
The nine diagnostic criteria for BPD were determined by mental health professionals who are experts in the disorder and who have extensive experience with patients with BPD. Currently, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) – essentially the bible for the diagnosis of personality disorders – is being revised to keep up with research developments and discoveries to make diagnosis of BPD even more accurate.
Diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder is made after a diligent analysis of your symptoms, behaviors, physical health, and previous and current life situation. It may also involve a discussion with family members or other loved ones about how BPD symptoms affect you.
Clearly, the diagnosis of BPD requires expertise, experience, and familiarity with the disorder. If you want answers regarding a suspected diagnosis, you should carefully research clinicians who specialize in assessing, diagnosing, and treating the disorder. If a psychological assessment determines you do have Borderline Personality Disorder, a mental health professional will be able to define what the diagnosis means and explain potential BPD treatment options to you.