It seems that a history of childhood ADHD may increase the risk for developing BPD, and will increase the severity of BPD symptoms. In those with histories of early trauma, co-occurrence of the two disorders results in greater impulsivity and emotional dysregulation.
At least 14% of those diagnosed with ADHD in childhood later receive a diagnosis of BPD while between 18% and 34% of the adults with ADHD are estimated to have comorbid BPD.
These data indicated that adults with ADHD had a high PD burden. Study authors concluded, “A high rate of PDs was found, most notably dependent, depressive, avoidant, antisocial, negativistic and borderline.
ADHD can present with symptoms such as irritability, mood lability, low frustration tolerance and low self-esteem, making it easily confused with mood disorders and personality disorders.
While there is stronger research linking ADHD to BPD and ASPD, it's still likely that people with ADHD are more likely to develop NPD than the general population.
In one study, researchers found that people with self-reported ADHD symptoms earned lower scores for affective empathy compared to other participants. However, they were still within the range of what's considered typical for empathy levels overall.
Toxic relationships hound many people with ADHD, whose persistent symptoms and battered self-esteem make them especially susceptible to “love bombing,” “trauma bonding,” and other romantic red flags. Here, learn how to spot signs of an unhealthy relationship.
All types of ADHD may include weaknesses in executive functioning. Thus, children with ADHD are more likely to have problems getting started on things, and have difficulty with planning, problem-solving, and time management.
At Work or School
Research has found that people with ADHD have more creativity and idea generation than people without the disorder. 3 This can lead to outside-the-box thinking that is so important for innovation. Hyper-focus: Many people with ADHD become hyper-focused on things that interest them.
Many children with ADHD have other disorders as well as ADHD, such as behavior or conduct problems, learning disorders, anxiety and depression1,2. The combination of ADHD with other disorders often presents extra challenges for children, parents, educators, and healthcare providers.
Can You Have ADHD and ASPD? Studies suggest that as many as 90% of adults with ADHD have other mental health disorders. ASPD is one of the most common mental disorders that happens with ADHD. One study showed that men with ADHD were more likely to have antisocial personality disorder than women with ADHD.
People with ADHD have exceptionally creative and versatile personalities. Their ability to “think outside the box” is one of their greatest strengths.
Similarities and Differences Between BPD and ADHD
The clearest connection between BPD and ADHD is impulsive behavior. To the untrained eye, it isn't uncommon for one to be unable to differentiate between these two conditions.
Yes, it is possible to have BPD and ADHD simultaneously. However, the prevalence of ADHD is around 5%, while for BPD, it is around 1–6%. Experts estimate that around 14% of individuals with an ADHD diagnosis in childhood later receive a diagnosis of BPD.
It seems that a history of childhood ADHD may increase the risk for developing BPD, and will increase the severity of BPD symptoms. In those with histories of early trauma, co-occurrence of the two disorders results in greater impulsivity and emotional dysregulation.
Clinical Symptom Overlap
The two core features that ADHD and BPD share include impulsivity and emotional regulation difficulties (Ditrich et al., 2021; Weiner et al., 2019).
Foods You Should Avoid with ADHD. In general, limiting the intake of foods high in sugar, unhealthy (saturated) fats, and simple carbohydrates is best.
Untreated ADHD in adults can lead to mental health disorders like anxiety and depression. This is because ADHD symptoms can lead to focus, concentration, and impulsivity problems. When these problems are not managed effectively, they can lead to feelings of frustration, irritability, and low self-esteem.
On the podcast, we discuss that even though ADHD people tend to be more forgiving, there isn't hard science as to why that is.
It means you can easily relate to other people, have a natural empathy to how they are feeling and are able to act accordingly. It also means that you are a good judge of character, which in turn has many benefits too.
Autism is very distinct from ADHD, but the core symptoms of ADHD-Combined type, i.e., attention deficit, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, would appear to also be features of autism. ASD and ADHD are neurobiological disorders characterized by similar underlying neuropsychological “deficits”.
Controlling behavior and distrust. Abusive — this is also inclusive of emotionally abusive behaviors, such as gaslighting, love bombing, breadcrumbing etc. Disrespectful. Financial abuse or dishonesty.
Many people with ADHD have trouble moderating their emotions. You may lose your temper easily and have trouble discussing issues calmly. Your partner may feel like they have to walk on eggshells to avoid blowups.
ADHD can make you feel angry or lonely. These emotions may feel draining and sap your interest in sex. Symptoms of ADHD can also cause relationship issues that make it harder for you and your partner to enjoy intimacy. For example, mood swings may make you more prone to arguing.