Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a treatable mental health disorder that affects one in 200 people in the U.S. today. If you know someone who shows narcissistic tendencies, you should be familiar with the signs of narcissism so you can better relate to them and work on improving your relationship. If the disorder is left untreated, it can lead to high levels of anxiety, stress, and substance use disorder.
Evoke Wellness in Waltham, MA, works with people with NPD to help them change their negative behaviors and develop more fulfilling and meaningful relationships. A person with NPD cannot see the harm they are causing to their loved ones and will need help recognizing their narcissistic behaviors. A personality disorder treatment program is the best course of action for anyone with NPD who wants help improving their behaviors.
If you or a loved one struggles with narcissistic personality disorder, help is a phone call away. Call 866.276.1920 today to schedule a tour of our mental health treatment center.
Understanding Narcissistic Behaviors
Narcissism is both a personality trait and a mental health disorder. While everyone can show traits of narcissism, a true narcissist will have a complete disregard for others’ feelings no matter who they are. This can make dealing with a narcissist very difficult and frustrating and cause serious problems in professional and personal relationships.
While the cause of narcissism is still unknown, many researchers and medical professionals believe the underlying cause of this disorder comes from peer and family relationships and genetics. Children of parents with NPD are more likely to show similar traits of the disorder and struggle to form meaningful relationships.
There are several different types of narcissistic personality disorder that can affect all people. These include:
- Overt narcissism
- Covert narcissism
- Communal narcissism
- Antagonistic narcissism
- Malignant narcissism
- Grandiose narcissism
- Entitled narcissism
- Exhibitionist narcissism
Treating NPD is possible through a combination of medication and ongoing therapy. Using medication will ease any related symptoms, such as depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. To treat the actual disorder, therapists will use cognitive-behavioral therapy and other types of behavioral therapies to address their selfish behaviors.
Evoke Wellness is a full-service mental health treatment center that welcomes Massachusetts residents who are showing signs of narcissism. We will develop a customized outpatient treatment program based on the underlying condition and any related symptoms. Treatment programs can include a mix of behavioral and holistic therapies and medical support to create a whole-person recovery experience.
Recognizing the Signs of Narcissism
If you are in a relationship with someone with NPD, you should be familiar with the more common signs of narcissism. This can help you navigate your relationship with them and help them recognize the harm they are causing.
Here are some of the common signs of narcissism that you should be familiar with:
An Exaggerated Sense of Self-Importance
This is one of the more obvious signs of NPD, where the person believes they are superior to all others and has a strong desire to be admired by others. Examples of this trait include acting arrogant, exaggerating stories and accomplishments, and dominating conversations.
A Lack of Empathy
A person with NPD is unable to recognize or understand the feelings and needs of others. They can’t see how their words or actions make others feel. As a result, they will often insult or put down others with zero regard for how it makes them feel.
Low Self-Esteem
This trait is very common for people with NPD. They inflate their own self-worth to hide the fact that they feel unworthy or are afraid of being exposed as a fraud. They will often blame others for their failures, criticize others’ appearance, and be verbally aggressive when confronted about their actions.
A Deep Desire to be Admired
Another common sign of narcissistic behavior is an extreme need for constant admiration. If they don’t get it, they can become depressed, angry, and combative.
Trouble Forming Close Relationships
Individuals with NPD will find it extremely difficult to develop close relationships. They will need to find a partner who understands their narcissistic traits. This person must be is willing to work with them to reduce their negative behaviors.
Enroll in Personality Disorder Treatment Programs in Massachusetts at Evoke Wellness Today
Narcissism is a treatable mental health disorder that has a significant impact on forming healthy relationships with others. Enrolling in a personality disorder treatment program can help address their narcissistic behaviors and help them learn new ways of interacting with their loved ones.
Evoke Wellness welcomes individuals struggling with NPD and wants help changing their behaviors and thoughts. Our outpatient programs allow patients to begin working with a therapist while continuing to work and care for their families. Each program includes group and private therapy sessions in a discreet location where they will talk about their feelings and why they need constant admiration and attention.
Today is the perfect time to make a positive change for the new year. Call 866.276.1920 today or use our online contact form to speak with our compassionate team about our mental health treatment programs.