Overview
Narcissistic personality disorder is a mental health condition where individuals have an unreasonably high sense of self-importance, a constant need for attention and admiration, and lack of empathy for others' feelings. They may believe they are superior to others, require special treatment, and exaggerate their achievements. People with this disorder may experience difficulties in relationships, work, and other aspects of life. Treatment typically involves talk therapy.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder include:
- Having an unreasonably high sense of self-importance and requiring constant, excessive admiration.
- Feeling that they deserve privileges and special treatment.
- Expecting to be recognized as superior even without achievements.
- Making achievements and talents seem bigger than they are.
- Being preoccupied with fantasies about success, power, brilliance, beauty, or the perfect mate.
- Believing they are superior to others and preferring to spend time with or be understood only by equally special people.
- Becoming impatient or angry when they don't receive special recognition or treatment.
- Having major problems interacting with others and easily feeling slighted.
- Reacting with rage or contempt and attempting to belittle others to make themselves appear superior.
- Struggling with managing emotions and behavior.
- Experiencing significant issues dealing with stress and adapting to change.
- Withdrawing from or avoiding situations in which they might fail.
- Feeling depressed and moody due to falling short of perfection.
- Harboring secret feelings of insecurity, shame, humiliation, and fear of being exposed as a failure. These symptoms can vary in severity and impact the individual's relationships, work, and overall well-being.
Risk Factors
The risk factors for developing narcissistic personality disorder are not fully understood, but some research suggests that overprotective or neglectful parenting, genetics, and other factors may play a role. Children who are born with a tendency to develop the disorder may be more susceptible to developing narcissistic personality disorder due to parenting styles that are either overly adoring or overly critical, which may not match their actual experiences and achievements. Genetics and neurobiology may also be contributing factors.
Development
Narcissistic personality disorder is believed to develop due to a combination of factors, including genetics, environmental influences, and neurobiology. Research suggests that overprotective or neglectful parenting may play a role in the development of the disorder in children who are predisposed to it. Additionally, genetics and other factors may contribute to its development. However, the exact cause remains unknown, and more research is needed to determine the precise factors involved.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if narcissistic personality disorder is suspected when there are symptoms such as difficulty managing emotions and behavior, major problems interacting with others, feelings of insecurity, shame, humiliation, and fear of being exposed as a failure. Also, if someone is experiencing drug or alcohol misuse, suicidal thoughts or behavior, it is important to seek medical attention.
Diagnosis
To diagnose narcissistic personality disorder, a thorough psychological evaluation is necessary. This evaluation typically includes:
- Assessing your symptoms and how they impact your life.
- A physical exam to rule out any underlying physical health concerns.
- A mental health evaluation, which may involve discussions about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, as well as a questionnaire to help pinpoint a diagnosis.
- Comparing your symptoms to the guidelines in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), published by the American Psychiatric Association. It's important to note that diagnosing personality disorders can be challenging due to the overlap between different types of personality disorders and the presence of other mental health conditions. A correct diagnosis is crucial to ensure proper treatment.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of narcissistic personality disorder include relationship difficulties, problems at work or school, depression and anxiety, other personality disorders, an eating disorder called anorexia, physical health problems, drug or alcohol misuse, and suicidal thoughts or behavior.
Home Remedies
It is important to note that narcissistic personality disorder is a complex mental health condition, and seeking professional help from a licensed therapist or mental health professional is the most effective way to address the symptoms and work towards recovery. Treatment for narcissistic personality disorder typically involves psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or dialectical behavior therapy, and may involve medication in some cases.
Treatment
Treatment for narcissistic personality disorder mainly involves talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy. The primary goal of treatment is to help individuals with NPD understand and manage their emotions, improve their interpersonal relationships, and reduce their reliance on self-importance and excessive admiration. Treatment typically involves a combination of individual therapy and group therapy, as it can be beneficial for individuals with NPD to learn from others who share similar experiences. Additionally, family therapy can be helpful for family members to learn healthy communication and coping strategies. It's important to note that the effectiveness of treatment for NPD can vary widely among individuals, and some people may not show significant improvement.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for narcissistic personality disorder, you should make a list of your symptoms, including any that do not seem to be related to the reason for the appointment. Also, gather key personal information, such as any major stresses or recent life changes, and your medical information, including other physical or mental health conditions with which you've been diagnosed. Additionally, prepare a list of all medications you take, including the names and dosages of any medications, herbs, vitamins, or other supplements. Take a family member or friend along to your appointment, if possible, and bring a list of questions you want to ask your provider.