People with borderline personality disorder (BPD) can also experience co-occurring post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Studies have shown that there is a higher likelihood of individuals with BPD having a history of trauma, which can be a contributing factor to the development of PTSD. Traumatic experiences during childhood, such as physical or emotional abuse, neglect, or other adverse events, are common risk factors for both disorders.
Having both BPD and PTSD can be an incredibly challenging experience for those affected. The combination of these disorders can lead to intensified emotions, impulsivity, and difficulty regulating one's feelings and behaviors. Here are some ways that having both disorders at once might feel:
Emotional Intensity: Both BPD and PTSD are associated with intense emotions. People may experience mood swings, feelings of emptiness, anger, fear, and sadness all at once or in rapid succession. The emotional rollercoaster can be overwhelming and hard to manage.
Fear and Anxiety: PTSD involves a heightened state of arousal, with individuals frequently experiencing fear, anxiety, and hypervigilance. For someone with BPD and PTSD, this constant state of alertness can exacerbate emotional dysregulation and feelings of being on edge.
Self-Destructive Behaviors: Individuals with BPD and PTSD may engage in self-destructive behaviors as a coping mechanism or to relieve emotional pain. These behaviors can include self-harm, substance abuse, binge-eating, or risky behaviors.
Difficulty in Relationships: Both disorders can impact the ability to maintain stable and healthy relationships. Individuals may struggle with issues of trust, fear of abandonment, and difficulty in understanding and expressing their emotions to others.
Flashbacks and Dissociation: People with BPD and PTSD might experience flashbacks related to their traumatic experiences or dissociate from their emotions or surroundings as a way to cope with overwhelming feelings.
Chronic Sense of Unworthiness: BPD can bring about feelings of worthlessness and insecurity. When combined with PTSD, these feelings can be reinforced by the traumatic memories and events, leading to a continuous struggle with self-esteem and self-worth.
Difficulty in Coping: Having both disorders can make it challenging to cope with stressors in life. Coping mechanisms may be limited or maladaptive, leading to further distress.
It is essential to recognize that individuals with BPD and PTSD can improve with the right support, therapy, and treatment. A combination of psychotherapy, such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and medication, when necessary, can help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with these conditions, it's crucial to seek professional help from mental health experts.