Unseen dualities: underdiagnosis of substance use disorders in borderline personality disorder

Our data confirm high prevalence of SUDs in BPD patients. Of note, medical records underrecognized alcohol abuse and cannabis abuse and dependence. Substance abuse and dependence are primary risk factors of suicidal behaviors and completed suicide. SUDs have been shown to be amenable to psychotherapeutic interventions. Therefore, careful diagnosis of SUD by e.g. expert structured interviews and integration of SUDs in a multimodal treatment plan is recommended.