Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Clinic Locations in Boise & Meridian

In recent years mental health has taken center stage in most conversations. People have begun to learn about things such as mood and personality disorders. Among the most widely discussed of these disorders is narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). Keep on reading for more about it and how a person with this mental illness can find help.

What is Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

Narcissistic Personality Disorder

NPD is a personality disorder characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance. It is one of the most common mental illnesses among all personality disorders. Although its causes remain unknown, researchers believe that it might result from various factors such as psychological, genetic, and environmental.

NPD also acts as a precursor to borderline personality disorder (BPD) and narcissistic rage. Despite the vilification of people with this disorder, it is noteworthy that it is an illness like any other and treatable with medical care. You should also note that this disorder is not gender-specific and occurs in both men and women.

What Are the Symptoms of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)?

There are several symptoms related to the narcissistic disorder. Individuals with NPD will showcase some of the following characteristics.

What Are the Symptoms of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)?
  • Excessively preoccupied with oneself, megalomania, and fantasies of power
  • Extreme arrogance and a high sense of self-importance 
  • Manipulative and an elevated sense of entitlement 
  • Inclination towards envy, while lacking empathy for others
  • Sadistic tendencies

However, it is crucial to note that only a psychoanalyst can make a proper diagnosis. This diagnosis is mainly based on a comprehensive psycho-diagnostic examination and lab tests.

What Are the Risk Factors of Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

What Are the Risk Factors of Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

Risk factors are the characteristics or conditions that increase the chances of developing a disorder. Some risk factors of NPD include:

  • Genetic predisposition.
  • Childhood environment
  • Personal or family history of mental disorders
  • Childhood abuse and neglect.
  • Biological or chemical imbalances in the brain

When Should You Get Help for Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

Due to lack of information, people with NPD tendencies might not know when and how to get help.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder

The following are some of the scenarios that indicate you should get treatment for NPD.

  • When you are unable to fulfill responsibilities because of preoccupation with personal needs and fantasies.
  • When your relationships deteriorate as a result of your manipulative behavior and overreaction to others' actions.
  • When you lose the ability to control your own life.

What Treatment Therapies are Available for Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

What Treatment Therapies are Available for Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

Medication for NPD

Medication is the most effective way to treat NPD. People with this disorder respond well to treatment using antidepressant and Antipsychotic medication.

Psychotherapy for NPD

Psychotherapy is a therapy that involves talking about the problems with a counselor. In this treatment, the counselor aims at resolving specific difficulties without focusing on a disorder per se. The process involves two steps:

  • Education on NPD and how it affects a person's life.
  • Learning skills that will enable the patient to cope with everyday problems.

Where Can you Go for Help?

At MidValley Healthcare, we offer a comprehensive and holistic approach to all our patient's needs. If you or someone you know suffers from this disorder, we are here to help. Contact our offices today and book your appointment.

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