Have you ever come across someone who always craves attention? Someone who conducts themselves as if they’re above everyone else?
Sometimes, this may just be their typical manner. Yet, it can also point to a mental health condition known as Narcissistic Personality Disorder.
At Baraka Behavioral Health, we offer mental health care that starts with a careful assessment. We create treatment plans based on each person’s needs. Our services include care for personality disorders, along with other mental health concerns.
Below, we will learn more about Narcissistic Personality Disorder, why it happens and how doctors can help.
What Is Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) alters how individuals think and feel.
Those with this disorder possess a strong need for admiration. They constantly seek validation from others. Moreover, they often find it challenging to empathize with others’ emotions. For instance:
- If a friend is upset, they may struggle to provide support.
- They frequently think they are entitled to preferential treatment in any situation.
However, this is merely the surface. Internally, individuals with NPD usually have a vulnerable heart. They often fret about making errors. When someone points out their mistakes, they might:
- Become extremely angry
- Experience profound sadness
Living this way is difficult. This tension impacts both the individual and their entire family.
What Causes Narcissistic Personality Disorder?
Doctors and scientists study the brain a lot. However, they still do not have one simple answer for what causes this condition. Instead, they believe it comes from a mix of a few different things. Let us look at these three main areas.
Genetics
Many mental health conditions can be easily passed down in families. This process is called genetics.
You get your genes from your parents. Genes decide your eye color, but they can also play a part in your personality. If someone in a family has a personality condition, a child might have a higher chance of getting it too.
Childhood Experiences
A person’s childhood plays a big role. Sometimes, parents praise a child too much. They tell the child they are better than every other kid, which can lead to:
- The child growing up thinking they are perfect.
- The child believing they are above the rules.
Other times, the opposite happens. Parents might be too hard on the child, giving too much harsh criticism. This can cause the child to:
- Build a tough wall around their heart.
- Act proud to hide their deep hurt.
Brain Connections
The brain might be built differently. Different parts of the brain talk to each other. In individuals with NPD, the areas responsible for concern for others may not operate as they should.
Empathy involves understanding and sharing another’s emotions. When empathy is poorly processed, the individual finds it challenging to be mindful of others’ feelings.
How Does This Condition Affect Daily Life?
Living with this disorder is not easy. It makes daily life bumpy.
At school or work, a person might:
- Argue with teachers or bosses
- Refuse to follow rules because they feel special
This behavior can lead to lost jobs or bad grades.
Friendships are also very hard. A person with this condition often wants friends who only praise them. If a friend disagrees, they might end the friendship right away.
Over time, they feel very lonely. They push people away, but they really want to be loved.
Can Narcissistic Personality Disorder Be Treated?
The good news is it can be treated. However, there is no quick fix. It takes time and hard work. The best NPD treatment is therapy.
There are different kinds of therapy. Each one works a little differently.
Cognitive behavioral therapy helps people change their thinking patterns. A person with NPD might learn to notice when they are being dismissive of others. They practice thinking in kinder ways.
Mentalization-based therapy helps people understand minds. It teaches them to think about why people act the way they do. This builds empathy over time.
Psychodynamic therapy goes deep. It looks at childhood experiences. It explores how those experiences shape current behavior. This can be a long process.
Therapy for NPD is not easy. The person may try to control the therapy. They might think they are smarter than the therapist. The therapist must be skilled at gently handling this.
At Baraka Behavioral Health, personality disorder care may include personalized therapy and medication support when appropriate.
There is no single medicine that cures NPD. However, some people with NPD may also have other mental health problems. These can include:
Medication can assist with these issues if suitable.
A thorough assessment identifies symptoms and appropriate treatments. We focus on clear evaluations, personalized treatment plans and ongoing support.
Final Thoughts
Narcissistic Personality Disorder is complex. It comes from many causes. Genetics, childhood, brain differences and culture all play a part. But having NPD does not mean a person is doomed. Treatment can make a real difference.
Therapy helps people understand themselves better. It helps them build healthier relationships.
Medications can assist with various symptoms. With help from experienced providers, individuals with NPD can enjoy more fulfilling and happier lives.
At Baraka Behavioral Health, we offer true care. We serve Spring, Texas, and offer online visits anywhere in the state. Dr. Andrew Merande provides great support for those with personality disorders. Call us today to book a visit. Let us help you start your new healing journey with us now.
FAQs
Can children have narcissistic personality disorder?
NPD typically begins in adolescence or young adulthood. Children may show signs, but diagnosis is approached cautiously. Consult a professional if concerned.
Are people with NPD dangerous?
Most are not physically dangerous but can be emotionally harmful, often manipulating or being unkind. Setting boundaries is crucial.