Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is one of the most misunderstood mental health conditions. Its symptoms are similar to those of other conditions, particularly bipolar disorder.
Although both disorders can involve dramatic shifts in mood and energy, they stem from very different causes. Bipolar disorder is primarily a mood disorder, while BPD is a personality disorder rooted in emotion regulation and attachment difficulties. Without a professional evaluation, it can be hard to tell the difference between the two.
So, how do you differentiate between bipolar versus borderline personality disorder? Below, we provide a more in-depth look at the nuances, along with an interactive quiz to help you better understand your symptoms.
Why Is BPD Commonly Misunderstood or Misdiagnosed?
BPD and bipolar disorder share several similarities on the surface: mood swings, impulsive behavior and difficulty maintaining stability. However, the underlying mechanisms differ significantly. Bipolar disorder is cyclical, marked by distinct episodes of depression and mania or hypomania. In contrast, BPD involves ongoing emotional instability often triggered by interpersonal stress or perceived rejection.
In the United States, bipolar disorder affects about 4.4% of adults. BPD is estimated to impact about 1.6% of adults, although experts believe the true number could be as high as 5.9%. Despite its prevalence, BPD remains misunderstood, and many individuals struggle for years before receiving the right diagnosis.
Understanding the difference between bipolar disorder and BPD is key to finding effective support. Our quiz can help you identify which patterns resonate most with your experiences.
Bipolar vs. Borderline Personality Disorder Quiz
Are you trying to compare bipolar disorder vs. BPD symptoms? While our quiz doesn’t provide a diagnosis, it may offer insight into areas worth exploring further with a mental health professional.
We hope this quiz has given you some insight into your unique symptoms. Emotional experiences are complex, and symptoms can overlap between BPD, bipolar disorder and other conditions such as anxiety or depression. If you recognize concerning patterns, consider reaching out to a licensed mental health professional.
Treatment Options for BPD and Related Conditions
Getting the right diagnosis is an important step toward recovery. Since BPD can easily be mistaken for bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions, professionals use a detailed evaluation process to make a diagnosis. This often includes clinical interviews, psychological assessments and a review of family and medical history. Once a diagnosis is made, treatment may involve a combination of approaches, including:
- Dialectical behavior therapy. A structured therapy designed specifically for BPD, DBT helps individuals build skills in mindfulness, emotional regulation and communication.
- Cognitive behavioral therapy. CBT focuses on identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns contributing to emotional distress and impulsive behavior.
- Medication and lifestyle changes. Proper medication management, paired with practices such as mindfulness and good sleep hygiene, can complement therapy.
Whether you’re seeking a diagnosis, treatment or both, help is available. At FHE Health, we offer comprehensive support for a wide range of mental health conditions. Through a personalized treatment plan and evidence-based therapies, we can help you overcome challenges and reclaim the life you deserve. Contact us today to learn more.
