Can you have bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder at the same time? This question has been asked many times, and I have always answered it. This is often called borderpolar by some. This term is not an official one, but it was created by professionals in the field.
The mood instability is a key area where bipolar disorder and bpd overlap. You can experience rapidly changing mood states, which can last for hours or even days. Episodes of depression or hypomania last for a minimum of four days, and for depression for at least two weeks.
Recent research shows that about 20% people suffer from both disorders. Although twenty percent is a low rate, it’s still less than half. However, people who have both of these conditions at once tend to be more severely ill.
This is important for the treatment you receive. Therapy is second and medication is the first line of treatment for bipolar disorder. Social rhythm and interpersonal therapy are all helpful as well as cognitive behavior therapy and psychodynamic therapy.
The primary treatment for borderline personality disorder is therapy. If medication is necessary, then therapy is the first option. Dialectical behavior therapy is the best treatment for borderline personality disorder.
You will need medication and DBT if you have one or both of these disorders. It is unlikely that medication alone will be sufficient.
Your doctor or therapist can help you to navigate this area and decide the best course.
Reference
Patel RS and Manikkara GA, Chopra A. Comorbid Borderline Personality and Bipolar Disorder: Outcomes in US Hospitals. Medicina (Kaunas). 2019;55(1): 13.
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