Understanding mental health conditions is crucial for getting the right treatment and support. Two disorders that are often misunderstood and confused with one another are Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) and Bipolar Disorder. Despite some similarities, BPD and bipolar disorder are two distinct conditions with unique symptoms, causes, and treatments.
In our guide, we will compare borderline personality disorder vs. bipolar disorder to help you learn the difference between these disorders and recognize the symptoms. We will also talk about the best treatment options for BPD and bipolar disorder and give you tips on finding support either for yourself or your loved one.
What Is Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD)?
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental health disorder that affects the way a person feels about themselves and other people, leading to issues with functioning in day-to-day life and maintaining stable relationships. It is estimated that around 1.4% of adults in the United States have BPD.
The symptoms of BPD may include an intense fear of abandonment, rapid changes in self-esteem, impulsive behavior, suicidal threats, and chronic feelings of emptiness. People with BPD are often very sensitive—they may react with anger, anxiety, and depression to the smallest changes in their environment.
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What Is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition that targets the mood of the individual—a person with this disorder will go through unusual mood swings that may affect their behavior and ability to think clearly. Approximately 2.8% of U.S. adults have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
The main feature of bipolar disorder is an episode of mania—an extreme high characterized by increased energy, euphoria, insomnia, agitation, and fast-paced talking. This may be followed by a depressive episode—a period of low energy, hopelessness, difficulty concentrating, and lack of interest in activities that used to bring joy.
BPD vs Bipolar Disorder Symptoms
While both BPD and bipolar disorder may lead an individual to feel anxious and depressed and behave erratically, the symptoms of these disorders are not the same.
| Symptom | Borderline Personality Disorder | Bipolar Disorder |
|---|---|---|
| Emotions | Rapid fluctuations in emotions within minutes or hours | Manic and depressive episodes that may last days and weeks |
| Self-Harm | Suicidal thoughts and attempts, high-risk behavior | Hurting oneself during a manic or depressive episode |
| Sleep | Insomnia due to agitation and anxiety | Lack of sleep during the manic episode, hypersomnia during the depressive episode |
| Relationships | Fear of abandonment, unstable personal and professional relationships | Ending relationships during a manic episode, withdrawing from socializing during a depressive episode |
Causes and Risk Factors of BPD and Bipolar Disorder
Mental health providers are unable to pinpoint a single reason behind BPD or bipolar disorder—these conditions are usually triggered by a combination of several factors.
Risk Factors
- Genetics. If your parent or sibling was diagnosed with BPD or bipolar disorder, you are more likely to have the same issue.
- Brain Structure. The way your brain is shaped and functions may predispose you to be diagnosed with a mental health disorder.
- Environment. Very often, mental health problems stem from childhood trauma—if you were neglected or abused when you were a child, this may affect you in the future.
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Diagnosing BPD and Bipolar Disorder
It is crucial to distinguish between BPD and bipolar disorder to make sure a person gets the treatment they need. Only a qualified specialist can diagnose either disorder—if you or a person you care about shows the symptoms listed above, reach out to a doctor.
A mental health provider will conduct a physical examination and talk to the patient about their medical history and symptoms they have displayed. In certain cases, a doctor may also want to speak to the friends and family of the patient to learn more about their behavior.
Treatment Options for BPD and Bipolar Disorder
Fortunately, both BPD and bipolar disorder are treatable—patients respond well to therapy and medications prescribed to them.
There are several types of therapy that can be beneficial for a person diagnosed with BPD or bipolar disorder:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This popular type of talk therapy will help the patient understand the patterns behind their thoughts and behavior and come up with coping techniques to manage their emotions.
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Typically used to treat BPD, this therapy will teach a patient to deal with stress, talk to others to resolve conflicts, and control their emotions.
- Family Therapy. It may be a good idea to involve the closest people of the patient in their therapy—a professional therapist will meet with the family of the patient to explain the diagnosis and teach the family members how to support their loved one.
There is no single medication that will cure BPD or bipolar disorder, yet certain drugs have proven to be effective when it comes to treating these disorders:
- Antidepressants. Medications like Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) can be prescribed to treat depression and anxiety associated with BPD and bipolar disorder.
- Antipsychotics. These drugs are often given to patients with bipolar disorder to help them manage manic episodes.
FAQs
1. What is the main difference between BPD and bipolar disorder?
The primary difference lies in mood patterns and emotional regulation. Borderline Personality Disorder causes rapid emotional shifts triggered by interpersonal situations, while bipolar disorder involves distinct manic and depressive episodes that last days or weeks and are not always linked to external events.
2. Can someone have both BPD and bipolar disorder at the same time?
Yes, it is possible for a person to be diagnosed with both conditions. Because some symptoms overlap, a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional is essential to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
3. How are BPD and bipolar disorder diagnosed?
Both conditions are diagnosed through a detailed clinical assessment conducted by a qualified mental health provider. This typically includes a review of symptoms, medical history, behavioral patterns, and sometimes input from family members or loved ones.
4. Do BPD and bipolar disorder require different treatments?
Yes. While therapy and medication may be used for both conditions, treatment approaches differ. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is especially effective for BPD, whereas bipolar disorder often requires mood stabilizers or antipsychotic medications in combination with therapy.
5. When should someone seek help for symptoms of BPD or bipolar disorder?
If mood swings, impulsive behavior, emotional distress, or relationship instability are interfering with daily life, it is important to seek professional help. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve symptom management and overall quality of life.
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Find Clarity and Mental Health Support in San Diego
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by mood swings, emotional instability, or uncertainty about whether your symptoms point to borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, or another mental health condition, you don’t have to navigate it alone. The caring team at Mental Health of San Diego offers professional evaluations, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support to help you understand your experiences and find a path forward. Reach out today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step toward emotional balance, clarity, and better mental well-being.
