The narcissistic personality disorder is a mental condition where people gain an escalated perception of their importance, like an intense need for drawing attention, lack of sympathy for others, troubled relationships, and so on. In such a condition, people try to wear a mask of self-confidence, leaving their fragile personality behind. Such a disorder can badly affect one’s personal and professional relationships, and even education or financial affairs.
People with this personality disorder can easily become disappointed when they do not get the respect or importance they expect from others. People, in general, prefer to stay away from such personalities as they always find them unfit for social customs and relationships. Here are the causes, symptoms, and the possible treatments of this mental disorder.
The causes of narcissistic personality disorder
It is very hard to say what actually causes this mental disorder. However, researchers believe that genetics and upbringing factors play key roles in developing the narcissistic disorder. Our personalities are inherited from our ancestors, and if someone thinks that they are different from the crowd and should be treated with special attention and admiration, the person may develop this mental disorder. Researchers have also found that parental neglect often leads to narcissistic disorder among children.
Common symptoms of the narcissistic personality disorder
The key signs and symptoms of this mental disorder can vary from person to person. However, there are some common symptoms every affected person may demonstrate in different circumstances. People with the narcissistic disorder can exhibit the following symptoms:
• They show an extreme desire for self-importance
• Always demand respect and admiration
• Nurture an understanding of entitlement
• Believe that they are superior to others
• Believe in daydreams on success, brilliance, power, or beauty
• Always expect better treatment and favor
• Have an instinct of ignoring others’ feelings and needs
• Measure others with envy
• Show false arrogance
• Love to call themselves the best in everything
Ways to deal with the narcissistic personality disorder
The primary challenge of dealing with this mental disorder is that people suffering from it never try to understand their fault and never consider it as a mental problem. Therefore, they do not seek treatment for their behavior.
In many cases, people with narcissistic disorder seek treatment when they become addicted to drugs or alcohol or suffer from depression or any other health or mental problems. However, in most cases, people with this mental condition do not seek treatment.
If you can see such symptoms in you or any other person close to you, you can take measures to improve the condition before it becomes a habit. The right treatment can make your life better and enjoyable.
Now, the question is how you would deal with a person with narcissistic personality disorder in your family. According to experts, the best way to deal with a person with the narcissistic disorder in your family is to never make them feel that you are trying to avoid them. Draw a boundary and always try to keep them within their limits in most of the circumstances.
Risk factors associated with the narcissistic personality disorder
Males are more vulnerable to this mental disorder than females. The signs and symptoms of the narcissistic disorder can be noticed at an early age. However, children often display such kind of behavior generally, and this should not be taken as the narcissistic disorder.
A person with this mental disorder can suffer from a number of complications. Stress and depression are very common; in some cases, people can develop suicidal thoughts. Here some common complications a person with the narcissistic disorder can suffer from:
• Depression and anxiety
• Physical and psychological problems
• Drug and alcohol addiction
• Relationship problems in the office, educational institutions, and at home
• Development of suicidal thoughts
Since people with narcissistic disorder want others to pay them special attention, they become sad or angry when they do not get it. Problems occur when someone tries to show the mirror to a mentally ill person. It is very difficult to make a person with this mental disorder understand that they are mentally ill and should do something about it.
Such people always try to overestimate their abilities and expect others’ appreciation for it. They do not like situations when they are defeated by others in a debate or a challenge. The most disappointing fact about this mental disorder is that there is no proven solution to this. However, one can improve the condition by bringing some changes in their behavior.
Such a mental disorder can be improved if it is diagnosed in the early stages. Psychiatric therapy is one of the most common treatments for people suffering from the narcissistic disorder. Family therapy or parenting classes often help people deal with this.
The narcissistic personality disorder is a rare mental problem. Genetic, environmental, and neurobiological factors can cause this mental illness. Thus, it is best to talk to an expert if you notice any signs or symptoms of the narcissistic disorder.
