Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a pattern of distorted self-image and behavior that can affect your entire life. It can be difficult to diagnose, but it is important to get help if you are experiencing symptoms of NPD.
Effects on Relationships and Life
NPD can make it hard to relate to others and engage in healthy relationships. It can also affect your ability to feel secure and to enjoy life.
Different Diagnostic Subtypes
The DSM-5 identifies several diagnostic subtypes, each characterized by different levels of severity. These include the grandiose, "overt" subtype; vulnerable, "covert" subtype; and healthier, "high-functioning" subtype.
Characteristics of NPD
In general, patients with narcissistic personality disorder are overly confident and crave attention. They lack empathy for other people and need constant approval from others to feel good about themselves.
Associated Psychiatric Conditions
Over time, people with NPD may develop other psychiatric conditions, such as depression or anxiety disorders. Psychotherapy can help them work through these issues and build new, healthier patterns of thinking and behavior.
Treatment Approaches
Treatment of narcissistic personality disorder requires a combination of therapy and medication. Some medications can help control narcissistic tendencies, such as antidepressants and antipsychotics. Other medications can help with other underlying problems, such as substance abuse or anxiety disorders.
Psychotherapy Options
There are different types of psychotherapy, and each type has its benefits and disadvantages. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is one form of psychotherapy that can be helpful for people with narcissistic personality disorder.
Roots of NPD
While most people with NPD have a strong need for admiration and approval, some of them also have a low self-esteem or feelings of inadequacy. Some narcissists are even prone to acting out in self-destructive ways. Many people with NPD have had a bad childhood experience, like being abused or neglected. They then developed a narcissistic personality to mask their pain and make themselves feel better.
Seeking Treatment is Key
NPD is a long-lasting and severe disorder, so it is critical to seek treatment for this condition. A therapist can help you learn to cope with the disorder and develop healthy relationships.
Distinguishing Features of NPD
The DSM-5 identifies a number of core features that distinguish narcissistic personality disorder from other personality disorders, including histrionic, borderline, and antisocial. These features, which include grandiosity and the need for admiration, are the most distinguishing characteristics of narcissistic personality disorder from these other diagnostic groups. Other criteria that distinguish narcissistic personality from other personality disorders are the presence of impulsivity, instability of sense of self, and poor interpersonal functioning. Those with narcissistic personality disorder often have trouble with depression and other mood disorders, which can make it more difficult for them to receive adequate psychiatric care.
Managing Interactions and Treatment
Because narcissistic personalities are so prone to negative reactions, it is best to avoid responding in a way that might trigger a narcissistic reaction in a patient. Likewise, it is essential to limit narcissistic reactions to treatment, as they can lead to a breakdown in the therapeutic relationship or increased risk of antisocial behavior.
