Bi-Polar Disorder and Borderline Personality Disorder

[LindorDoubleChoc]

I know these are two different diagnoses (although sometimes people forgivably get them mixed up because of the BPD shorthand).

What is thought to be / accepted to be the cause of either or both?

What are the differences between the two?

I'd be very grateful to hear any thoughts

Difference is Bipolar is a mood disorder whereas bpd is a personality disorder.

bipolar can be caused by genetics, chemical imbalance and trauma. Bpd is caused by trauma.
the symptoms are different though they can overlap.
this is my understanding of it, although I realise there could be more to it than that.

Pretty good summary, bipolar responds better to medication, personality disorder to talking therapy, there’s obviously a lot more to both

Bipolar mood swings can last for long periods, low moods can last for months, high periods can last for weeks. Bipolar responds to mood stabilisers and anti depressants.
Bpd mood swings can vary wildly within a few hours, you can feel OK one minute and terrible an hour later. Bpd can't be treated by medication although sometimes low dose antipstchotics can help with sleep.

Some good points made already but as a clinician I’m looking for frequently and duration of mood fluctuations. Vast majority of people with bipolar will have distinct periods of lows and highs which may last weeks months or even years whereas people with borderline pd ( now known as emotionally unstable personality disorder/ complex emotional needs) will have rapid mood fluctuations ( think minutes to hours) often seen in combination with specific interpersonal triggers, often substance misuse and / or suicidality / self harming and unstable sense of self. As previous posters have said there can be overlap.

Bipolar can show in later life
Treatable with medication
Periods of highs and lows can last many weeks and months
Experience grandiosity
Impulsivity during phases of mania or depression
Often is not related to life events

EUPD often starts in late adolescence
Rapid mood changes, can experience multiple mood shifts within a day
Isn't 'curable' with medication
Unstable self image
Chronic impulsivity
Strongly associated with life events