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How To Rule Out Borderline Personality Disorder?

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Posted on Wed, 25 Nov 2015
Question: Hi doc
I believe I am suffering from borderline personality disorder.
I am taken multiple tests online that indicate I am.
I also tend to be very sensitive and cant take criticism well. I also overthink everything even the smallest things and make the problem much worse in my head then what it is.
I also obsess about everything, sometimes I cant stop thinking about things and they can bother me for days or weeks.
I also am very anxious and nervous, and have anxiety which makes me worry about everything.
I also have mood swings, I can be on a high then suddenly on a low in a matter of hours.
I also have unwanted or disturbing thoughts that run through my mind and I can't control them.
I also think of terrible things at night such as my mother or father passing away and cry about it in bed.
what other illness may I have and what can I do about it?
thank you
doctor
Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (20 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thank you for your question.

I'm sorry you're having so many difficulties right now. Let me give you some more information that hopefully will help.

Borderline personality disorder is characterized by chronic suicidal thoughts or feelings, tumultuous relationships, self-injury such as cutting, and emotional disturbances. You only mention mood swings, so it may be that you do not have BPD.

Other diagnostic options that come to mind are the following. Bipolar disorder, which also has mood swings, is possible. An anxiety disorder such as generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder is possible. Obsessive compulsive disorder is possible, as you mention you have disturbing thoughts at night. And depression is possible, as it appears you have been crying.

Have you had any suicidal thoughts? Do you use any substances like alcohol, marijuana, or any other illegal substances?

The good news is that you can get help. A psychiatrist can collect a complete history from you, make a diagnosis, and give you medication and psychotherapy that have been proven to be effective for all these conditions I mentioned.

My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX psychiatrist working in New York City. For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, or individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (1 hour later)
Thank you for the information
I have had suicidal thoughts and do contemplate them. I have only once attempted it 5 years ago.
I do not use any types of drugs illegal or legal, i perfer to stay away from medication.


doctor
Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (2 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Follow-up

Detailed Answer:
You're very welcome.

If you are having suicidal thoughts of any kind, as difficult as it may be for you, you absolutely need to visit an emergency room. There are things we can do to help improve your symptoms, and there is no need for you to wait. Seek help immediately.

My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX psychiatrist working in New York City. For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, or individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Sonia Raina
doctor
Answered by
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Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2014

Answered : 2236 Questions

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How To Rule Out Borderline Personality Disorder?

Brief Answer: Consultation Detailed Answer: Hello, and thank you for your question. I'm sorry you're having so many difficulties right now. Let me give you some more information that hopefully will help. Borderline personality disorder is characterized by chronic suicidal thoughts or feelings, tumultuous relationships, self-injury such as cutting, and emotional disturbances. You only mention mood swings, so it may be that you do not have BPD. Other diagnostic options that come to mind are the following. Bipolar disorder, which also has mood swings, is possible. An anxiety disorder such as generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder is possible. Obsessive compulsive disorder is possible, as you mention you have disturbing thoughts at night. And depression is possible, as it appears you have been crying. Have you had any suicidal thoughts? Do you use any substances like alcohol, marijuana, or any other illegal substances? The good news is that you can get help. A psychiatrist can collect a complete history from you, make a diagnosis, and give you medication and psychotherapy that have been proven to be effective for all these conditions I mentioned. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX psychiatrist working in New York City. For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, or individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers