Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) can be a confusing and often misunderstood condition. Even more confusing is when someone is told they have “traits of BPD” but not the full diagnosis. What does that actually mean? Does it matter? And how can it affect your life or someone you care about?
In this blog, we’ll explore the difference between having BPD as a clinical diagnosis and having traits of BPD. We’ll also talk about why this difference matters – but also why it shouldn’t be used to dismiss anyone’s struggles.
Table of Contents:
What does it mean to have traits of BPD?
BPD is a mental health condition that affects how someone thinks, feels and acts. It often causes strong emotions, fear of being abandoned, identity struggles and unstable relationships.
To get a BPD diagnosis, a person must meet certain criteria in mental health guides like the UK’s ICD-11. These symptoms need to cause real problems in daily life.
Sometimes, people show some symptoms but not enough for a full diagnosis. This is called having BPD traits. It still means they need support and help, even if it’s not a full diagnosis.
Why do people have BPD traits?
There are many reasons why someone might show traits of BPD without having the full condition.
Some possible factors include:
- Early life trauma or emotional neglect
- A sensitive or intense temperament
- Ongoing stress or attachment difficulties
- Learned patterns from family or relationships
Sometimes, people with BPD traits are going through a rough patch in life, such as a breakup, grief or crisis. Traits may appear temporarily during stressful periods and lessen over time or with support.
It’s also possible that a person is developing BPD, especially if they’re young, and the full picture hasn’t emerged yet.
The key differences between BPD and traits of BPD
Let’s break it down a bit more clearly:
Number of symptoms
- BPD: Usually meets the full set of diagnostic criteria outlined in the ICD-11.
- BPD traits: Shows some, but not all, of the symptoms.
Impact on daily life
- BPD: Symptoms tend to be severe and cause major issues in relationships, work, identity or day-to-day functioning.
- BPD traits: Symptoms may still cause distress, but they might be more manageable or show up only in certain situations.
Clinical diagnosis
- BPD: Can be officially diagnosed by a mental health professional.
- BPD traits: May be noted by a therapist or GP, but isn’t a formal diagnosis on its own.
Support and treatment
- BPD: Often eligible for specific treatments like Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and sometimes access to specialist services.
- BPD traits: Might still benefit from therapy (especially trauma-informed or relational therapy), but access to services can be more difficult due to not having a “full” diagnosis.
Is a diagnosis helpful or harmful?
Some people find comfort in receiving a BPD diagnosis. It can validate their experiences, help them access treatment, and offer a sense of understanding. Others feel stigmatised by the label or worry it will limit how others see them.
With BPD traits, it can go both ways. Some feel frustrated not to “qualify” for a diagnosis, as if they’re being told they’re not struggling “enough.” Others feel relieved not to have a label that carries a lot of societal judgement.
Neither response is wrong. What matters most is whether the person gets the right kind of support – and that they’re met with empathy rather than assumptions.
Tips for supporting someone with BPD traits
If someone you love has traits of BPD, here are a few things you can do to help:
- Don’t dismiss their struggles just because they don’t have a diagnosis
- Learn about BPD and its symptoms so you can understand their experience better
- Be patient with emotional ups and downs
- Set clear boundaries while remaining compassionate
- Encourage them to seek support – and offer to go with them if it helps
A little understanding can go a long way.
FAQS: Traits of BPD
What if I think I have traits of BPD?
If you relate to some of the symptoms of BPD – like emotional swings, fear of abandonment or unstable relationships – it might be worth speaking to a mental health professional. They can help you understand what’s going on and work out a plan for support, whether you meet the full criteria or not.
You don’t need a label to deserve help. Whether it’s talking therapy, DBT skills or simply learning more about how your mind works, support can make a big difference.
Can BPD traits turn into BPD?
It’s possible. Mental health is a spectrum, and some people who start with traits of BPD may later meet the full criteria, especially if underlying issues aren’t addressed. That said, early support and self-awareness can go a long way in preventing things from escalating.
It’s also possible for traits to reduce over time, especially with therapy, healthier relationships and personal growth.
Final thoughts: BPD vs traits of BPD
Having traits of BPD isn’t a diagnosis, but it’s still a valid experience. People with traits can feel just as overwhelmed, hurt or confused as those with the full condition. Diagnosis or not, every person deserves to be met with care, respect and the opportunity to heal.
If you see yourself in some of what we’ve described, you’re not alone. There’s support available, and there’s hope for feeling better – one step at a time.
