I've struggled with depression and anxiety for the last 30 years (I'm 44). During that time, I've experienced 4-5 major depressive episodes. It is reasonable to assume that my depression and anxiety are being caused by other underlying issues (i.e. Intense and overwhelming emotions; fear of not being good enough; fears of abandonment; fear of being socially misunderstood and judged unfairly, ostracized, and shamed). It is probably no surprise that my self esteem and self worth is low, but twice in the last 30 yrs. I've lost my "sense of self" and have fought my way out of a complete mental breakdown filled with the fears I've touched on. During these times, I've had an impossible time regulating my emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. These two mental breakdowns were triggered by "confirmation" of my deepest unrealized fears and consequently ended in bereavement and major depression (each lasting about 4 years).

I'm putting this out there because my daughter was just diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder and persistent depression. She has had significant problems, for the last 4 years, that have resulted in arrests and landing herself in extremely dangerous situations. Her psychological distress was noticeable and her moods would change like flipping a switch. Her behavior was often hostile and aggressive, defiant and oppositional, or sickeningly sweet, outgoing, and almost 'delusionally' optimistic. Anything I've said about myself can most likely be said about my daughter (who is 17). Because of this, I'll not repeat myself and leave you to assume.

We are completely different people, but her worst episodes and mine (mentioned above) look exactly the same, meaning she got this from me. My oldest daughter, more than like, has this too - though she is a meth head so, its hard to tell.

My Question is, doesn't seem likely I am Borderline too? I was told once, by an ER doc, that he documented that I have Borderline tendencies because if he were to give the diagnosis he felt it was, they would take my kids away. Is that true? If I get a diagnosis like my daughter has gotten, my kids would be removed from my care? How does that translate to my daughters future? Any recourses or insight would be nice.