We’ve all met someone who we’d loosely describe as a “narcissist” or something close to it. But what is narcissism, really? Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a mental health condition used to describe an inflated sense of self in relation to those around them. It affects up to 5% of people in the U.S. and is more prevalent in men than women. 

Are you or your loved one struggling with narcissistic personality disorder? Here’s what you should know about mental health treatment for this condition.

What are the symptoms associated with narcissistic personality disorder?

There are specific symptoms that someone with NPD may recognize in themselves. Some of these symptoms include:

• Believes they’re superior to those around them — One of the key symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder is grandiosity. This may involve believing that they are better than the people around them. They could have an inflated sense of self or believe that they’re more special than others.
• Believes others “owe” them — It’s also common for people with this disorder to have a sense of entitlement. In other words, they believe that their family or friends are indebted to them or “owe” them. Many might tell the people around them that they should express more gratitude toward them.
• Puts themselves before others — Many people with this disorder will put their own needs above the needs of those around them. This is also known as exploitative behavior. They may prioritize their own wants and fulfillment over their loved ones. This can cause issues for their relationships with spouses and children.
• Desires to achieve success, money and power — People with NPD are likely to express an intense drive to achieve success, money, power and social status. They may use any means necessary to achieve these, even if it means causing distress to others.
• Desires frequent attention or praise — Someone with NPD is likely to express a desire for near-constant attention and admiration. It may feel as if they can never get the amount of admiration and praise they seek. 

How can a mental health professional treat someone with narcissistic personality disorder?

It’s important to recognize that individuals with NPD can experience changes over time. Research suggests that traits may lessen with age. This highlights the potential for treatability. Those seeking help for NPD should be provided with supportive opportunities for treatment

Narcissistic personality disorder is a challenging condition. While not curable, it can be effectively managed and improved. Treatment and support are essential. Here are some benefits of seeking treatment for NPD:

• Improving self-awareness — Licensed clinical therapists can help people with this disorder develop a stronger sense of self-awareness; thus, they can learn to interact with others in more empathetic ways. They can also learn to see themselves in a more realistic light. 
• Developing healthier coping skills — People with NPD also have the ability to learn healthier coping skills. These skills may help them manage their emotions. Many people with narcissistic personality traits struggle to maintain control over their emotions. They may subject the people around them to intense emotional outbursts. Learning how to use healthy coping skills can be helpful for people with this condition and their loved ones.
• Deepening relationships with those around them — Treatment from a licensed clinical therapist can also help people with this disorder strengthen their relationships with others. Professional treatment can teach them to consider the emotions of others. It also helps them become more mindful of the people in their lives.

Lightfully can provide whole-person treatment for individuals struggling with narcissistic personality disorder

Our mission is to provide high-quality mental health care to various types of clients. That includes those with NPD. We believe in using a focused approach to process-based therapy to treat you beyond your symptoms. The framework of our clinic consists of evidence-based, clearly defined, data-driven and whole-person-centered care. 

We meet each client where they are. That way, we can make long-term treatment plans that can meet their individual needs. These plans can identify gaps in each person’s mental and behavioral health. With treatment, our clients begin to see significant improvements in their mental health.

If you or a loved one are considering treatment options, have questions about programs or need help navigating any other steps on the road to recovery, contact our caring Admissions Concierge Team today.