[Celyn]

Hey there,

Sorry for the delay

Why do you suspect you may have borderline personality disorder? Is it something that a professional might’ve mentioned, or did you look online for the symptoms? If a professional mentioned it, then perhaps you could talk with them about it? Otherwise, it’s best to not look too into the symptoms as they could also be the result of low self-esteem, anxiety and depression. I’m not a professional,

I’ve had similar experiences with wanting constant reassurance. BPD sufferers often cling to someone and need that person to reassure them that they do love them, they won’t leave them etc., as they might fear abandonment. However, this could also be from low self-esteem as when we don’t feel good about ourselves, we think that others might not like us as much either, so we may also be clingy in that sense.

Being sensitive to criticism and insults isn’t really part of a BPD diagnosis. Some people are just more sensitive than others, but at the same time, if you have been hurt before, then you may be more sensitive towards getting hurt again.

Frequent break ups and arguments may also be caused by BPD in that sufferers might not know how to express what they want, or they might be afraid their partner will cheat or leave them or a range of other things. Again though, this might not be BPD related as it takes two to argue, and there may be factors from your boyfriend that influences the arguments as well. However, feeling suicidal or depressed after an argument isn’t healthy. If you do feel suicidal in the future, please go to your nearest A&E or check out our hotlines: http://www.teenhelp.org/hotlines/#depression_and_suicide

Getting angry over someone being late and not being able to let things go could also be BPD or low self-esteem and depression. One of the thinking styles that may make things worse for us is ‘black and white’ thinking or thinking that things are either all good or all bad. Instead we need to realise that people are a mixture of both. Keep reminding yourself that your boyfriend is there for you too, even if he doesn’t reply to you straight away.

The other symptoms you mention, such as impulsivity, is the classic symptom of borderline personality disorder. However, there is a quieter version of BPD that doesn’t include impulsivity.

I suggest talking to your psychologists about how you are concerned about having BPD as only they can diagnose you.

Take care