Borderline Personality Disorder Symptoms

Discover Whether or Not Borderline Personality Disorder is a Problem For You!

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), Borderline Personality Disorder symptoms are as follows…

The main feature of this personality disorder is "a pervasive pattern of instability of interpersonal relationships, self-image, and marked impulsivity" (DSM-IV). This disorder typically begins in early adulthood.

Five or more of these symptoms need to be present:

• Extreme efforts to avoid imagined or real abandonment from loved ones or others.


• Unstable relationships.


• Lacks a secure identity about oneself. Lacks self-confidence and sense of self.


• Impulsive in at least two of these areas; gambling, sex, binge eating, substance abuse, spending, or reckless driving.


• Recurrent suicidal threats or attempts, which includes self-mutilating behavior.


• Unstable mood. Emotions are everywhere (i.e., anxiety for a few hours with extreme irritability).


• Constantly feels empty.


• Extreme anger that is inappropriate (i.e., temper, anger that is constant, and many fights with others)


• Paranoid thoughts.

If you feel that you may have borderline personality disorder, talk to a local therapist or doctor about your concerns. Keep in mind, in order to be diagnosed with this condition, this disorder has to take up a significant part of your daily living. In other words, if your symptoms haven't caused several problems with the law, in your relationships, or with your career/job, then it's unlikely that this disorder is an issue.

However, it's not uncommon to have a few of these symptoms at one point in your life! Just remember, it has to be severe enough that it has affected your ability to function in a logical, respectful manner.

Resource:

American Psychiatric Association (APA), 2000. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th ed. Washington, D.C., American Psychiatric Association.

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