Hey there, obviously I can't be 100% sure from this paragraph, but you may also consider ADHD or autism as a possibility, especially if it runs in your family.

I feel like I could have written this about myself. I've always considered myself and empath bc my emotions were always more intense than others. I struggle with regulating alot. I too have BPD and I believe this palys a big role in that. While I am in very early stages of my diagnosis I was aware of it before I ever seeked treatment for it and years feeling like a bipolar diagnosis wasn't correct. I also agree with MsUnderstood too because I've been looking at how high functioning autism and BPD have many overlapping symptoms and I feel like I do a lot of those things as well. I can relate to how you feel and I want you to know you are not alone. I also like to believe our ability to perceive emotions so deeply is probably a super power we just havnt been able to harness yet!

I can relate deeply to your post. I remember feeling different from my peers as far as my emotions and sensitivity were concerned. I was an easy target for bullies at a young age because of it, but eventually, I was able to use those empathic abilities to my advantage and read people and situations well. I also became the go-to counselor for most of my friends and occasionally even new acquaintances because I was a good listener and sensitive to their concerns. I did seek counseling in my teens and was eventually diagnosed with Bipolar disorder and anxiety. For me, that diagnosis made perfect sense to explain where this heightened empathy and emotional intensity were coming from. Over the years, I've learned more about other mental health disorders through my work and with my daughter having an ADHD/Bipolar/anxiety diagnosis as well as potentially being on the autism spectrum. I've come to find that between those, as well as BPD and anxiety, there is a lot of overlap of symptoms. It can be difficult to find a diagnosis that fits, but ultimately, the most important thing is the work after that diagnosis. Finding the tools and strategies that help us navigate through life as smoothly and successfully as possible. This looks different for everyone, and one person's progress and success can look very different from others. Hopefully, you can find a diagnosis that makes sense for you and that steers you in the direction you need to go to live your best life. If you'd like to talk more, I'd love to chat. Feel free to DM me. I wish you all the best on your journey!😁