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It is true that borderline can look like rapid cycling bipolar. Although I've heard some people say it's just a diagnosis doctors give when they have to other explanation, when I look at my sister, she just fits the criteria so perfectly. The fear of abandonment is a big one. For her at least, I think this is why she acts so non-narcissistic. She will do anything for anyone, I think because she is afraid of being abandoned. Another key thing with the disease is that when they are having some kind of episode or upset with something, they are unable to see that life will ever be good again. Like that moment will go on forever. With people who are well-educated on their bipolar, I think they have the ability to say, "I'm in a depressed episode right now."Or, "I'm feeling manic." It is much harder for the borderline to do that. But, like I said, cutting is one of the hallmarks. I read online that that is one of the easiest ways to tell the difference between rapid cycling bipolar. And the unstable relationships. And I mean really unstable. My sister has been in one for 12 years and she's only 24! The other day we were laughing about all the things she has beat him with over the years.
There is a good book, if anyone is interested called I Hate You, Don't Leave Me, that explains more.
Also, we had an online friend on this forum named Jen who had started a borderline journal like yours, Jenna. She was a cutter too. Jen, are you out there? I haven't seen a post. I hope you are safe and have just been away from your computer or are in the hospital! If you are out there, let us know how you are.....
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