Bipolar Mum Journey

Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) and Bipolar Disorder are distinct mental health conditions, but they share some overlapping features that can make diagnosis and treatment complex. Understanding these overlaps is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management.

1. Impulsivity

One of the most significant overlaps between ASPD and Bipolar Disorder is impulsivity. People with ASPD often engage in impulsive behaviours, disregarding the consequences for themselves or others. Similarly, during manic episodes, individuals with Bipolar Disorder may act impulsively, making reckless decisions that they wouldn’t consider during stable periods.

2. Irritability and Aggression

Both conditions can involve heightened irritability and aggression. For someone with ASPD, these traits may be more chronic and pervasive, often linked to a disregard for others’ rights. In contrast, a person with Bipolar Disorder may experience irritability and aggression primarily during manic or depressive episodes.

3. Risk-Taking Behaviours

Engaging in risky behaviours is another area of overlap. In ASPD, risk-taking might stem from a lack of concern for safety or rules. In Bipolar Disorder, especially during mania, the individual might engage in risky activities due to inflated self-esteem, a sense of invincibility, or a lack of insight into potential dangers.

4. Emotional Dysregulation

Both ASPD and Bipolar Disorder involve difficulties with emotional regulation. In ASPD, this can manifest as a persistent lack of empathy and emotional coldness, while in Bipolar Disorder, emotional extremes are more episodic, swinging between highs (mania) and lows (depression).

5. Comorbidity

It’s not uncommon for individuals to be diagnosed with both ASPD and Bipolar Disorder. The presence of one disorder can exacerbate the symptoms of the other, complicating treatment. For instance, the impulsivity of Bipolar Disorder might worsen antisocial behaviours, while the emotional instability of ASPD can make mood regulation in Bipolar Disorder more challenging. 

While I acknowledge my Bipolar diagnosis, I reject the label of ASPD, as it conflicts with my caring nature. My actions, particularly the stabbing of my ex-partner, were driven by a breaking point, not a lack of empathy. I question if this branding stems from gender biases, wondering if every person who acts in self-defence is seen as a sociopath, or if it’s just because I’m a woman.