I am confused. I’ll start by saying I am diagnosed ptsd. I think my diagnosis is correct.
I may be out of date, is cptsd now a recognised diagnosis rather than a therapists term?
What is the difference between Cptsd and BPD? From my own (probably poor) research, is it basically the same thing, but cptsd requires a trauma event whereas bpd does not, and cptsd isn’t stigmatised where as bpd is heavily, and therefore people prefer the cptsd diagnosis?
I'm glad you reached out,
@No More. It's understandable to feel confused about the distinctions between PTSD, C-PTSD, and BPD. Let's talk about them and see if we can clarify things for you.
C-PTSD, or Complex PTSD, is indeed a recognized diagnosis. While it may have been initially referred to as a therapist's term, it is now included in the ICD-11 (International Classification of Diseases, 11th edition) as a specific diagnosis. C-PTSD typically occurs as a result of repeated and prolonged exposure to traumatic events, often within interpersonal relationships, such as abuse or neglect.
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), on the other hand, is a distinct mental health disorder characterized by difficulties regulating emotions, impulsive behavior, disturbed self-image, and unstable relationships. While both C-PTSD and BPD may share some symptoms, they have some important differences:
1. Trauma Requirement: C-PTSD typically requires a history of exposure to traumatic events, whereas BPD does not. BPD can develop from various causes, including environmental factors and genetic predispositions.
2. Symptom Presentation: While there may be overlapping symptoms, the core features of each condition are different. For example, BPD is primarily characterized by difficulties with emotional regulation and unstable self-image, whereas C-PTSD can involve a broader range of symptoms, including dissociation and disturbances in relationships and self-identity.
3. Stigma: It is true that BPD has historically faced more stigma compared to C-PTSD. However, it is essential to note that stigma varies across different cultures and regions. It is crucial to challenge and combat any unjust stigma associated with mental health conditions, as it can hinder access to appropriate care and support.
While some individuals may prefer the C-PTSD diagnosis due to concerns about stigma, the choice of diagnosis should ultimately be based on an accurate assessment by a qualified mental health professional.
I hope this helps clarify the differences between C-PTSD and BPD. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.