Free Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Test
This screening test is designed to assess potential symptoms associated with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Please note this is not a diagnostic tool - only a qualified mental health professional can diagnose BPD. The test is based on DSM-5 criteria and common clinical assessments.
Select your gender to begin:
Your BPD Screening Results
Emotional Instability:
Relationship Patterns:
Impulsivity:
Self-Image:
Fear of Abandonment:
Important Disclaimer
This screening test is not a diagnostic tool. Only a qualified mental health professional can diagnose Borderline Personality Disorder. If your results suggest potential BPD traits and you're experiencing distress, please consider consulting with a mental health professional for a comprehensive evaluation.
Understanding Borderline Personality Disorder
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition characterized by emotional instability, intense interpersonal relationships, fear of abandonment, and impulsive behaviors. Symptoms typically emerge in late adolescence or early adulthood.
Key Features of BPD
According to the DSM-5, BPD is characterized by at least five of the following nine criteria:
- Fear of abandonment: Extreme reactions to real or perceived abandonment
- Unstable relationships: Alternating between idealization and devaluation
- Identity disturbance: Unstable self-image or sense of self
- Impulsivity: In areas that are potentially self-damaging
- Suicidal behavior: Or self-harming behavior
- Emotional instability: Intense mood swings lasting hours to days
- Chronic feelings of emptiness
- Inappropriate anger: Or difficulty controlling anger
- Stress-related paranoia: Or severe dissociative symptoms
BPD Symptoms Explained
| Symptom Area | Manifestations | Impact on Life |
|---|---|---|
| Emotional Dysregulation | Intense mood swings, emotional overreactions, slow return to baseline | Difficulty maintaining stable relationships and employment |
| Relationship Patterns | Idealization/devaluation cycles, fear of abandonment, intense attachments | Frequent relationship conflicts and breakups |
| Impulsive Behaviors | Substance abuse, reckless spending, unsafe sex, binge eating | Financial, legal, or health consequences |
| Identity Disturbance | Unstable self-image, shifting goals/values, feeling "empty" | Difficulty with long-term planning and career stability |
| Self-Harm/Suicidality | Self-injury, suicidal gestures/threats, chronic suicidal thoughts | Frequent hospitalizations, risk of completed suicide |
How Accurate Is This Test?
This screening tool is based on established clinical criteria for BPD but is not a substitute for professional diagnosis. The test has good sensitivity for detecting potential BPD traits but should not be considered definitive.
Treatment Options for BPD
Several evidence-based treatments exist for BPD:
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): The gold standard treatment focusing on emotion regulation and distress tolerance
- Mentalization-Based Treatment (MBT): Helps improve understanding of self and others
- Schema Therapy: Addresses maladaptive life patterns
- Transference-Focused Psychotherapy: Uses therapeutic relationship to understand patterns
- Medication: May help with specific symptoms like mood swings or depression
FAQ: Borderline Personality Disorder
Is BPD the same as bipolar disorder?
No. While both involve mood instability, BPD mood shifts are more rapid (hours/days) and tied to interpersonal triggers, while bipolar episodes last days/weeks and are less situation-dependent.
Can BPD be cured?
While there's no "cure," many people with BPD experience significant improvement with treatment. Symptoms often decrease with age.
What causes BPD?
BPD results from a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors (often childhood trauma or invalidating environments).
How common is BPD?
Estimated to affect 1-2% of the population, with higher rates in clinical settings.
Can people with BPD have healthy relationships?
Yes, with treatment and self-awareness, people with BPD can develop and maintain healthy relationships.
Should I take this test if I'm in crisis?
If you're experiencing severe distress or suicidal thoughts, please contact a mental health professional or crisis line immediately rather than taking this test.