Key takeaways

  • Although borderline personality disorder (BPD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are separate diagnoses, they share some overlapping symptoms.
  • There may be an association between childhood ADHD symptoms and diagnoses of BPD in adults.
  • Medications and psychotherapy may play a role in managing both ADHD and BPD, but specific recommendations can differ between the two conditions.

BPD is a personality disorder that involves intense and unstable emotions. People with BPD may have issues regulating emotions, leading to impulsive actions and chaotic relationships.

Symptoms of ADHD often begin during childhood. They include problems with focus, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. People with ADHD may have difficulty paying attention, sitting still, or controlling their impulses.

Though ADHD and BPD are distinct conditions, it is possible for a person to have both simultaneously.

BPD and ADHD are two separate diagnoses that may share some symptoms. Some people may also have both, which doctors refer to as comorbidity.

BPD is a psychiatric condition that results in marked impulsivity and a pattern of instability in a person’s relationships and self-image.

Conversely, ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, meaning it is due to issues that influence the development and function of the brain. It begins during childhood and results in difficulty focusing and impulsive behavior.

Doctors are unsure of the exact cause of either BPD or ADHD, but these conditions likely result from a combination of factors. The causes of ADHD are likely genetics and changes in brain function and structure. The causes of BPD may include:

  • genetics
  • unbalanced brain chemicals
  • atypical brain development
  • environmental factors such as trauma or neglect

There may be a link between BPD diagnoses in adults and a history of childhood ADHD symptoms. This may suggest that ADHD is a developmental risk factor for BPD, though more research is necessary to confirm this.

BPD and ADHD have several overlapping symptoms, including:

Both BPD and ADHD may involve difficulties with impulsivity, but there are differences in how this presents.

For example, individuals with BPD may have difficulties with appropriate responses when stressed and may direct this into self-harm. Conversely, people with ADHD may have issues with focusing and impatience, talking over people, and interrupting others.

Another difference between the conditions is that a lack of attention, or attention deficit, is a core symptom of ADHD but not BPD.

Additionally, BPD symptoms usually appear in early adulthood, though it is possible for adolescents to have symptoms. ADHD symptoms start in childhood, but some people may not receive a diagnosis until adulthood.

Yes, it is possible to have BPD and ADHD simultaneously. However, the prevalence of ADHD is estimated to be about 3% to 6% in adults. The estimated prevalence of BPD in the general population is lower, at 0.7% to 2.7%.

Experts estimate that about 14% of individuals with an ADHD diagnosis in childhood later receive a diagnosis of BPD. Also, prevalence rates suggest that 18% to 34% of adults with ADHD also have BPD.

Medical Perspective

“The fact that these two disorders have overlapping features is what makes [a diagnosis] challenging. The impulsivity and behavioral changes can cause a practitioner to pause and step back to take a good look at the timeline of these symptoms.

“Factors such as age of onset and whether these symptoms are rather pervasive or related to external stressors can be determining factors. The fact that these disorders can coexist in the same person make this even more challenging.

“There is no set time for how long it might take to differentiate between the two or to determine that both disorders are present. That can depend on the amount of history available and the accuracy of the history provided. Sometimes history can be difficult to obtain and it may require longer observation to make the determination. “

— Nicole Washington, DO, MPH

Quotes represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

Impulsivity is a feature of both BPD and ADHD, and impulsivity levels may be higher in people with both disorders.

Similarly, emotional dysregulation is a symptom of both disorders, and people with both conditions may have more severe difficulties with emotional regulation.

Overall, people with both disorders appear to have more intense symptoms. A small 2025 study also suggests that people with BPD and ADHD may experience more severe symptoms of other conditions, such as anxiety and depression.

More research is necessary to understand how BPD and ADHD interplay.

Medication and psychotherapy are treatment options for both conditions, although specific recommendations may differ between BPD and ADHD.

Therapy

Doctors usually recommend psychotherapy as the first-line treatment for BPD.

Experts developed dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) specifically for individuals with BPD. It uses mindfulness to help people become aware of their emotions, manage them, and reduce self-destructive behaviors.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is another possible option for those with BPD and ADHD. It can help individuals identify and change their beliefs and behaviors.

If doctors diagnose a child with ADHD, they may also recommend therapy geared toward the child’s parents or caregivers. These include family therapy and parent skill training. The child may also benefit from certain accommodations in school, such as additional time for exams and tailored support in classes.

Medications

There is currently no established medication regimen for BPD. However, a healthcare professional may recommend medications for specific symptoms such as mood changes or depression.

Doctors commonly use medications for ADHD to reduce hyperactivity and help people focus. However, they may need to try several different medications or dosages before finding one that works for the individual.

ADHD medications are either stimulants or nonstimulants. Stimulants increase dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which may help improve thought processes and attention span. Doctors may prescribe nonstimulant medications if an individual has issues with stimulant medications. They take longer to work but can also improve focus and attention.

A small 2026 study found that methylphenidate (Ritalin) — a drug that can be helpful for ADHD symptoms — also reduced BPD traits in adolescents with ADHD. However, more studies are needed in people with both diagnoses.

If a person thinks that they or their child has BPD or ADHD, it is important to seek professional help. A doctor can conduct various tests and assessments to confirm a diagnosis.

It is best to seek a diagnosis as soon as possible so doctors can recommend interventions to improve the individual’s symptoms and quality of life.

Mental health professionals, such as psychologists and psychiatrists, can diagnose both BPD and ADHD. Primary care doctors may also be able to diagnose ADHD.

BPD is a personality disorder, while ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder. Although they are separate diagnoses, there are some overlapping symptoms, and an individual may have both conditions.

Impulsivity, difficulty regulating emotions, and relationship issues are characteristics of both conditions. However, they may materialize differently.

Although BPD and ADHD are potentially challenging conditions, numerous treatment options are available. Doctors may recommend a combination of psychotherapy and medications to ease symptoms and help people live a full life.