Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in People With BPD

Please note that this article contains information that may be triggering to some people. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors, please seek immediate help. You can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 for support and resources.

Suicidal behaviors and completed suicides are alarmingly common in individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Research indicates that approximately 75% of people with BPD engage in at least one suicide attempt during their lifetime, and many experience multiple attempts. Tragically, people with BPD are also more likely to complete suicide compared to individuals with other psychiatric disorders. Estimates suggest that between 3% to 10% of individuals with BPD die by suicide, which is significantly higher than the suicide rate in the general population.

Understanding Suicidal Behaviors in People With BPD

Several factors associated with BPD may explain the elevated risk of suicide, self-harm, and suicide attempts among individuals with this condition:

1. Severe Emotional Pain:

BPD is characterized by intense negative emotional experiences, often described as overwhelming and unbearable. These intense emotions may lead individuals with BPD to seek ways to escape the pain, potentially engaging in self-harm, substance use, or even suicide.

2. Duration of Symptoms:

BPD is a chronic condition that typically persists for years, unlike temporary emotional distress. The ongoing presence of symptoms, including suicidal ideation, can leave individuals with BPD feeling hopeless and convinced that there is no other way to cope or find relief.

3. Comorbidity with Other Mental Disorders:

BPD commonly co-occurs with other mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, major depression, and schizoaffective disorder. The presence of these additional disorders further increases the risk of suicidal behavior.

4. Impulsivity:

BPD is associated with impulsivity, a tendency to act quickly and without adequate consideration of consequences. Impulsivity can contribute to suicidal behavior when individuals with BPD act on intense emotional pain or distress without fully contemplating the potential outcomes.

5. Substance Use:

BPD often co-occurs with substance use disorders. Substance use, in itself, is a risk factor for suicide. When combined with BPD, the combination can be particularly lethal, as substance use can exacerbate impulsivity and provide a means for overdose.

6. Brain Abnormalities:

Brain imaging studies have shown that individuals with BPD tend to have abnormalities in brain structure, metabolism, and function compared to healthy individuals. These abnormalities may contribute to the impulsivity and aggression commonly seen in BPD, both of which are associated with suicidal behavior.

Seeking Help for Suicidal Thoughts:

If you or a loved one is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors, it is crucial to seek immediate help. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you are in immediate danger. For support and guidance, you can also reach out to a helpline such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and offers free and confidential support.

Supporting a Loved One With BPD Who Is Suicidal:

If you suspect that your loved one with BPD may be suicidal, even if they have not explicitly expressed suicidal thoughts, it is essential to initiate a conversation. Express your concern, ask them directly about their feelings, and offer your support. While it may be challenging due to symptoms associated with BPD, demonstrating care and concern for your loved one's safety and well-being can make a significant difference.