Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is often characterized by a sense of grandiosity, lack of empathy, and a need for admiration. It is estimated that nearly 1 in 16 Americans has NPD at some point in their lives, leading many people to believe that their opinions and interests should taken precedence over others’. Those with NPD may have a tough time forming close relationships because of their exaggerated sense of self-importance.
As noted in a review of NPD published by EBSCO Information Services, there are two subtypes of NPD: overt and covert. Those with overt NPD display entitlement, denial of weakness and exploitive behavior, whereas those with covert NPD display hypersensitivity to insult, feelings of shame, helplessness or inadequacy, and social withdrawal. There is no known cure for NPD, but it is possible for those with the disorder to seek treatment and develop tools to better relate to others in a more positive way.
Treatment may include medication, but should first and foremost involve psychotherapy, also known as “talk therapy”. It may take quite some time for those with NPD to find breakthrough in therapy because it is focused more on their personality traits, but those who are willing to learn more about their disorder and how they come to view themselves and the world, as well as how these perceptions dominate their behaviors are likely to see improvement. The following are likely going to be some key focal points of therapy:
- Maintaining relationships with others
- Learning to relate better with others so that one can find relationships more intimate and rewarding
- Understanding the causes of one’s emotions and how those emotions may drive a person to compete, distrust, or despise oneself or others
- Tolerating criticisms and failures
- Understanding and regulating one’s emotions
- Minimizing one’s inner drive for perfectionism
Many people with NPD are also struggling with mental disorders such as depression and/or anxiety. If this is the case, seeking out a reputable treatment center who specializes in all these areas is crucial. If you’ve been diagnosed with NPD, make the decision to seek help today so that you can develop the tools you need to lead a happier, healthier life.
Avalon Malibu is a world-renowned, California state-licensed mental health and substance abuse recovery center. If you are ready to seek treatment to develop the tools you need to overcome life’s obstacles and be on the road towards happiness, health, and well-being, call us today at 888-958-7511 for a consultation.
References
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/9741.php
https://www.ebscohost.com/assets-sample-content/SWRC_QL_Narcissistic_Personality_Disorder_(1).pdf
https://www.psycom.net/personality-disorders/narcissistic/
