Is There a Borderline Personality Disorder Test

Is There a Borderline Personality Disorder Test BPD Diagnosis Print Diagnosing and Treating Borderline Personality Disorder Is There a Borderline Personality Disorder Test? By Kristalyn Salters-Pedneault, PhD Kristalyn Salters-Pedneault, PhD, is a clinical psychologist and associate professor of psychology at Eastern Connecticut State University. Learn about our editorial policy Kristalyn Salters-Pedneault, PhD Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on August 10, 2019 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on August 28, 2019 Tom Merton/Caiaimage/GettyImages More in BPD Diagnosis Treatment Living With BPD Related Conditions Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition that causes people to have difficulty regulating their emotions. The primary symptoms of the condition are dramatic mood swings, impulsive behaviors, poor self-esteem, and persistent difficulties in personal and professional relationships. While mental health professionals may use screening tools to help diagnose BPD, a single, definitive borderline personality disorder test does not exist. Instead, a licensed mental health provider will diagnose BPD through a thorough assessment. Cause of BPD It is not yet known exactly what causes borderline personality disorder, but a combination of genetics, neurological, and social factors are most likely at play. For example, people with a first-degree relative who has the condition are about five times more likely to also have BPD. Additionally, many people with BPD experienced a past trauma that may have influenced the development of the disorder. Imaging studies have shown that people with BPD demonstrate structural and functional differences in their brains compared to those who dont have BPD.   Diagnosing Borderline Personality Disorder Only a qualified mental health professional like a psychiatrist, psychologist, or clinical social worker can diagnose BPD. Usually, a diagnosis is made after a comprehensive assessment, which entails much more than a single test. The process may include consultations and conversations with previous caregivers, family members, and friends. A medical exam is often part of the assessment because it can help rule out other causes for the reported symptoms. Screening for BPD As part of their assessment, mental health professionals may use screening tools to assist with diagnosis.?? The McLean Screening Instrument for Borderline Personality Disorder (MSI-BPD), for example, is a 10-item, paper-and-pencil test to based on DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. The Personality Diagnostic Questionnaire (PDQ-4) offers another approach with 99 true or false questions that screen for several different personality disorders, including BPD. Professionals may also use resources like the APAs Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 Personality Disorders to help screen for BPD.?? Screening for Borderline Personality Disorder Diagnosing BPD Ultimately, an official diagnosis requires at least five of the nine primary symptoms of BPD to be present: Fear of abandonmentUnstable and intense interpersonal relationshipsUncertainty about self-image or identityImpulsive behaviorSelf-injurious behaviorEmotional reactivity or instabilityFeelings of emptinessDifficulty controlling intense angerTransient suspiciousness or “disconnectedness” Often, ordinary activities and events can precipitate symptoms in a person with BPD. For example, when a close friend or relative takes a vacation or has to cancel plans due to a work conflict, a person with BPD may become disproportionately upset and angry, fearing abandonment.??   BPD Criteria for Diagnosis What to Expect If you suspect that you or a loved one has BPD, look for a mental health professional with experience diagnosing and treating personality disorders. When you arrive for your first session with your new therapist, you may feel nervous or uncomfortable. Your therapist should share their diagnostic approach with you, but dont hesitate to ask questions about what their assessment might entail. The assessment may carry over into a few sessions. Thats OK. Your therapist will ask you questions about your symptoms, health history, and life. You may be asked to complete a questionnaire or screening test. If you are diagnosed with BPD, your therapist will discuss recommended treatment options to help you manage your symptoms and feel better. What to Expect During a BPD Assessment Treating Borderline Personality Disorder BPD treatment typically involves some combination of therapy, medication, and social support. Therapy may include dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or psychodynamic psychotherapy. Medications such as mood stabilizers, antidepressants, or antipsychotics may also be helpful. Often, treatment plans are adjusted over time based on trial and error.   In addition, adhering to some of the following lifestyle modifications may be useful in recovering from BPD: Maintain a regular eating and sleeping scheduleExercise regularlySpend time with friends and family and build trusting relationships with people you can confide inInform friends, family, and co-workers about what may trigger symptomsBe patient with your progressLearn about your condition and stay informed about treatment optionsAvoid alcohol and drugs Its important to note that BDP frequently co-occurs with other mental illnesses like depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, or substance abuse. A study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that BPD is a risk factor for bipolar disorder, and one-fifth of people with BPD also have a diagnosis of bipolar disorder.?? This can make a diagnosis and effective treatment of BPD more difficult. The 9 Best Online Therapy Programs A Word From Verywell Borderline personality disorder is associated with a high risk of self-harm or suicide. If you or someone you know is exhibiting symptoms of BPD or any other mental illness, its important to talk to a doctor and get help. While there is no single test you can take to diagnose BPD, a licensed mental health professional can help determine whether your symptoms indicate BPD or another personality disorder and most importantly, recommend treatment that can improve your quality of life. Could You Have BPD?