BPD in Men VS Women

 Hellooo there, baddies! In this article, we're going to identify the differences between men with BPD versus women with BPD. Men and women with BPD may experience similar symptoms, but there are a couple major differences. 

To start off, we should understand the fact that around 75% of BPD patients or women. This does not mean that as a man, you cannot have BPD. It is very much possible. However, when someone talks about symptoms of BPD, they may talk about symptoms that are mostly common in women. Therefore, a man with (undiagnosed) BPD may think he doesn't have BPD at all, which leads to confusion. 

Symptoms of BPD in women, which are the symptoms we know very well, may include:

- intense, unstable relationship

- extreme fear of abandonment 

- risky and impulsive behaviors

- identity confusion/crisis

- dissociation 

- unstable emotions

- eating disorders or symptoms of eating disorders

- increased severity of PMS symptoms before and during menstruation

As for men, symptoms of BPD may include:

- difficulty in relationships

- displaying extreme rage

- aggression

- uncertainty with sense of self

- substance abuse 

- self-harm behavior

- suicidal ideation 

- narcissitic and controlling behavior

- emotional sensitivity

- boundary issues

The main difference in symptoms of BPD in men versus women is the type of co-occuring disorder(s) they may have. For example, women are more likely to have eating disorders and mood and/or anxiety disorders. Men are more likely to struggle with substance abuse and diagnosed with ASPD (antisocial personality disorder) or other Axis II disorders. 

Treatment of BPD for men compared to women is very significantly different. For men, they will mostly be treated using substance abuse treatment services. For women, they will mostly be treated with psychotherapy/CBT or DBT. 

What we can learn from this is that 1) BPD looks different for each person, especially for each gender and 2) BPD treatment can be improved, especially and specifically for men. I hope this post has raised some awareness on BPD symptoms especially for men. To my fellow male borderlines, you are seen and you are going to be okay. Keep going, as tough as it is, keep going. You can do it. Treatment is worth it and following it will make your life incredible. These words apply to anyone struggling with any sort of disorder. Have a great day, baddies!