Narcissistic Personality Disorder Treatment

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) stems from an inflated sense of self-importance that masks an underlying vulnerability to criticism and defeat.

NPD is a rare condition that is thought to affect anywhere from 0.5% to 5% of the population, but this statistic can vary as many challenges are faced in diagnosing the condition.

Despite its challenges, understanding NPD is crucial for those living with the disorder and also their loved ones. This is because it lays the groundwork for navigating the delicate process of seeking help and moving toward healthier ways of relating to oneself and others.

At Elevate Psychiatry, we understand the challenges and effects NPD has on your life. Our committed team provides personalized treatment and support designed to meet your unique specific needs and preferences.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder Basics

Narcissistic personality disorder is a mental condition in which people have an inflated sense of their own importance, a deep need for excessive attention and admiration, troubled relationships, and a lack of empathy for others. 

However, behind this mask of extreme confidence lies a fragile self-esteem that's vulnerable to the slightest criticism.

NPD is one of several types of personality disorders. It's characterized by patterns of grandiosity, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of understanding or consideration for the feelings of others. 

People with NPD often spend a lot of time thinking about achieving power or success or about their appearance. They may also take advantage of the people around them to get what they want.

Symptoms of Narcissistic Personality Disorder

The symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder can vary in severity, but according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), they typically include:

  • Grandiosity with expectations of superior treatment from others
  • Fixation on fantasies of power, success, intelligence, attractiveness, etc.
  • A need for excessive admiration
  • A sense of entitlement
  • Interpersonally exploitative behavior
  • Lack of empathy
  • Envy of others
  • The belief that others are envious of them
  • Arrogant behaviors or attitudes

It's important to note that narcissistic personality disorder is a complex disorder that can only be diagnosed by a qualified mental health professional. Not everyone who displays narcissistic traits has NPD, and having some of these characteristics doesn't mean a person has a personality disorder. 

Causes of Narcissistic Personality Disorder

The exact causes of narcissistic personality disorder are not fully understood, but it is believed to result from a complex combination of factors, including genetic, neurobiological, environmental, and psychological influences. Here's a closer look at these factors.

  1. Genetics: Studies suggest that there might be a hereditary component to NPD, meaning it can run in families. However, no specific genes have been linked to the disorder.
  2. Neurobiology: Some research indicates that there may be differences in the brain structures and functioning of people with NPD, particularly in areas related to empathy, emotional regulation, and social behavior.
  3. Environment: Childhood experiences, such as extremely high expectations, excessive pampering, abuse, or neglect by parents or other family members, may contribute to the development of NPD. An environment that either puts a child on a pedestal or devalues them can impact their self-esteem and self-image.
  4. Psychology: Early relationships and experiences with parents and others may influence the development of NPD. For example, inconsistent parental caregiving, with either excessive adulation or excessive criticism, can contribute to a person developing narcissistic traits.

It's important to note that not everyone exposed to these factors develops narcissistic personality disorder, suggesting that a complex interaction of these elements contributes to the disorder. 

Understanding the causes of narcissistic personality disorder can be challenging, and researchers continue to study these factors to better understand how they contribute to the development of narcissistic traits and NPD.

Diagnosing Narcissistic Personality Disorder

At Elevate Psychiatry, we diagnose narcissistic personality disorder through a detailed clinical evaluation, which includes:

  • Clinical interviews: Discussing symptoms, behaviors, and personal history
  • DSM-5 criteria: Meeting at least five of the nine specific criteria outlined in the DSM-5, such as grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy
  • Psychological assessments: Utilizing tests to assess narcissistic traits and personality type
  • Differentiation: Distinguishing NPD from other mental health conditions with similar symptoms
  • Functional impact analysis: Evaluating how symptoms affect a person's daily life and relationships
  • Ruling out other causes: Excluding physical health issues, substance use, or reactions to stress or trauma

Diagnosing narcissistic personality disorder is complex due to potential overlap with other disorders and the challenge of those with NPD recognizing their own symptoms.

How We Treat Narcissistic Personality Disorder

The treatment of narcissistic personality disorder primarily involves talk therapy, as there are no medications specifically approved to treat NPD. 

However, medications might be used to address specific symptoms or co-occurring disorders, such as depression or anxiety. The goals of therapy are to help patients understand the causes of their emotions and what drives their need for excessive admiration and control, as well as to learn how to relate more positively to others. 

Treatment approaches can involve the following options.

Talk Therapy

When treating narcissistic personality disorder, a multifaceted therapeutic approach offers various ways to healing. Each of these paths targets different aspects of the disorder, from altering harmful thought patterns to addressing deep-seated emotional injuries.

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): This helps people identify and change destructive thought patterns and behaviors and develop healthier ways of relating to others.
  • Psychodynamic psychotherapy: This focuses on understanding the underlying emotional wounds and conflicts that contribute to narcissistic behaviors, aiming to encourage better self-esteem and more adaptive ways of interacting with others.
  • Schema therapy: This aims to identify and change deeply rooted patterns or schemas, including those that support narcissistic behaviors, to promote healthier relationships and self-concept.
  • Group therapy: This can help by providing a setting where patients can relate to others in a safe and structured environment, although it may be challenging for people with NPD due to their sensitivity to criticism and comparison.

Medications

While there are no medications specifically for narcissistic personality disorder, medications such as antidepressants, anti-anxiety medication, or mood stabilizers may be prescribed to treat co-occurring symptoms or disorders.

Lifestyle and Coping Strategies

Encouraging healthy lifestyle choices, stress management techniques, and strengthening social support networks can also support the treatment process.

Treatment Challenges

Finding the right treatment for narcissistic personality disorder can be tricky but also rewarding. We help patients get involved in their therapy and build a strong, supportive connection with them.

  • Engagement in therapy: Those with NPD may have difficulty acknowledging their vulnerabilities and may be reluctant to engage in therapy.
  • Therapeutic alliance: Building a strong therapeutic relationship is crucial but can be challenging due to trust issues and sensitivity to feedback.

Treatment success for narcissistic personality disorder varies across patients and can take time. At Elevate Psychiatry, our providers are highly accustomed to assisting those with NPD, knowing that it requires patience, commitment, and a skilled therapist. 

Our aim is to help develop a more realistic self-image, improve relationships, and manage emotions and behaviors in a healthier way.

Managing Narcissistic Personality Disorder with Elevate Psychiatry

At Elevate Psychiatry, we can help you develop the ability to acknowledge your own actions, gain a more balanced perspective, and create more fulfilling connections. 

Your experience is unique to you, and we will help you find a treatment path that best suits your needs. Let us help you fight against narcissistic personality disorder.

Book an appointment online or get in touch with us at one of our three locations:

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