I really do not think tattoos are a sign of a psychological disorder, so I wouldn't worry about that bit though its intresting she'd insist on keeping them hidden a lot of people like to have them visible unless in a setting where its best to cover them....and from what I know getting tattoos does hurt but some people find it worth it my brothers got two so far. So probably best to leave that part alone.

Also BPD is not the only disorder that can contribute to attempting suicide or cutting/self mutilation...that can also have to do with depression and even PTSD among other things. Do you have any idea what her diagnoses is? like when she went to the hospital did they diagnose her with anything, or did she have a diagnoses previous to that?

Also though not to be rude, but how do you define 'where she should be' I mean i remember in psychology class the instucter was talking about how one problem is people with mental health issues beating themselves up over not being where they 'should' be but the trouble is where one should be is subjective....I normal person 'should' be able to cope with every day stress without major difficulties, someone with psychological problems shouldn't necessarily be able to do that for them maybe they 'should' just do their best to cope and continue getting help for their issue...but shouldn't be expected to reach the same bar as someone without psychological issues in every aspect of life because for some no matter how hard they try to work on the issues or make improvements they still aren't going to reach that state of normal functioning some people expect of them.

Sounds like she certainly has some sort of issue with the self harm and suicide attempt, but not sure jumping on BPD is the best idea. I mean people with that do suffer and do need help and compassion, though unfortunately even among mental health professionals there is a lot of stigma towards that disorder sad but true. But yeah you'd have to go into more detail as self harm and attempting suicide doesn't point to BPD per say.