This is a mental health problem in which a person has an unreasonably elevated sense of their own importance. This condition is known as narcissistic personality disorder and those who experience this condition usually do not understand or care about other people’s feelings. However, these people could be unsure about self-worth behind extreme confidence and easily upset even with the slightest criticism.
This mental health problem can provoke problems in different areas of life (including relationships, work, school, or finances). Generally, people with this personality disorder type are unhappy and disappointed when do not have the special favors or admiration they think they deserve. Commonly, it is not comfortable being around such people.
In most cases, men are more prone to develop this mental health problem than women. Usually, the first symptoms appear in the teens or early adulthood. The treatment for this condition usually involves talk therapy (psychotherapy).
Symptoms
The severity of the symptoms fluctuates among patients. Commonly those who experience narcissistic personality disorder can:
- Have high self-importance and need regular excessive admiration
- Believe that they deserve privileges and special treatment
- Wait to be recognized as superior despite not having achievements
- Make some achievements that seem bigger than they are
- Be preoccupied constantly with fantasies (such as success, power, brilliance, beauty, or the perfect mate)
- Think or believe they are superior to others and cannot be understood by these people
- Look down and be critical of people they think are not important
- Do not recognize the needs and feelings of other people
- Get what they want by taking advantage of other people
- Be often envious of other people and think others envy them too
- Have an arrogant behavior
- Permanently insist on having everything the best (such as car or office)
Such people have problems with handling everything they consider as criticism. For example:
- People with narcissistic personality disorder can become angry or impatient when they do not get what they want
- Experience serious problems interacting with other people
- Can react with contempt and rage and try to belittle other people because it helps them appear superior
- Have problems with managing behavior and emotions
- They usually face serious problems dealing with stress and adapting to changes
- Constantly try to avoid situations when they could fail
- Such people can also hide feelings of insecurity, shame, humiliation, and fear of failure
Those who suffer from this mental disorder do not think they have a problem and do not get treatment. Such people can visit a doctor if experience other problems along with narcissistic personality disorder such as alcohol misuse, depression, and other mental disorders.
Causes
Healthcare providers do not know the exact cause of this mental health problem. However, several factors can contribute to narcissistic personality disorder. For example:
- Genetics – Certain inherited characteristics (including personality traits)
- Environment – For instance, if in relationships between parents and child exists too much adoration or criticism and it does not match the child’s experiences.
- Neurobiology – There may be a connection between thinking, behavior, and the brain.
Risk Factors
Some experts think that parents who are overprotective or neglectful can contribute to the development of this mental health problem. Additionally, genetics and other environmental factors also can contribute to narcissistic personality disorder.
Complications
People who ignore this health problem may experience some complications. Examples include:
- Relationship problems
- Difficulties at school or work
- Eating disorders (such as anorexia)
- Physical health issues
- Misuse of alcohol or illegal drugs
- Suicidal thoughts or behavior
- Other personality disorders
- Depression
- Anxiety
If you notice that you experience any of the previous complications, seek medical attention right away.
Prevention
There is no way to prevent this mental condition because it is unknown the exact cause. However, the following tips can help to improve the symptoms. Examples include:
- Early diagnosis and treatment can improve the symptoms and prevent complications.
- It is advised to participate in family therapies to learn how to overcome emotional distress and conflicts.
- You can also seek guidance from a specialist in mental health problems.
Diagnosis
In some cases, it may be challenging to diagnose this condition because other personality disorders have similar symptoms to narcissistic personality disorder. Commonly, the diagnosis of this mental disorder is based on the following tests and procedures. For example:
- Doctors will assess the severity of the symptoms and if they negatively affect your life.
- Physical examination to exclude other potential causes of the symptoms.
- Psychological evaluation
- In some cases, physicians may use guidelines in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)
Treatment
Commonly, the only effective treatment option for people with this mental disease is psychotherapy. In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications if you experience other mental disorders (such as anxiety or depression) along with narcissistic personality disorder.
Psychotherapy
The main narcissistic personality disorder is psychotherapy and it can help you to learn how to relate with other people. This procedure also helps to understand the cause of the emotions and what to do to prevent distrust and dislike of other people and possibly yourself.
Psychotherapy is usually recommended by doctors because it helps to accept responsibility. This treatment option can also help to learn to:
- Maintain and accept personal relationships and work together with co-workers
- Understand your actual abilities, skills, and potential which can help with failures and criticism
- Manage your feelings
- Control problems associated with your self-esteem
- Achieve realistic goals and not want goals that cannot be reached
Once you begin this therapy, it can help you cope with stressful situations and crises.
Medications
Medications approved for narcissistic personality disorder do not exist. Healthcare providers may prescribe some medications if they determine you have depression, anxiety, or other mental conditions symptoms.
Home Remedies
Usually, people with narcissistic personality disorder consider that treatment is not worth the time and attention and can leave the treatment. In any case, it is recommended to:
- Maintain an open mind
- Follow exactly the treatment prescribed by your doctor
- Manage other health problems including addiction, depression, stress, and others
- Focus on your goals and regularly remember yourself about them
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary narcissistic personality disorder symptoms?
- Lacking empathy
- Hogging the conversation
- Picking on you
- Thinking you are right
- Charming first impression
- Feeding off compliments
- No long-term friends
- Gaslighting you
If you notice that a close friend or a family member.
What are the symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder in women?
- Increased focus on physical looks
- Arrogance
- A sense of superiority
- They usually are not capable to considerate toward others
- Problems with failure and criticism
- Cannot make deep relationships
Consult with a doctor for more details.
Do people with this mental condition lie?
Yes, they tend to lie a lot because of a lack of emotions or normal human inhibitions. They are not sensible and do not want to show empathy for other people. They also do not feel shame or remorse which makes them lie with minimal inhibitions. If you have additional questions, ask your healthcare professional.
