Do I Have Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

Do you have a grandiose sense of self-importance (e.g., exaggerating achievements and talents, expecting to be recognized as superior without commensurate achievements)?

Are you preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty or ideal love?

Do you believe that you are “special” and unique and can only be understood by or should associate with, other special or high-status people (or institutions)?

Do you require excessive admiration?

Do you have a sense of entitlement (i.e., unreasonable expectations of especially favorable treatment or automatic compliance with your expectations)?

Are you interpersonally exploitative (i.e., taking advantage of others to achieve your own ends)?

Do you lack empathy (are you unwilling to recognize or identify with the feelings and needs of others)?

Are you often envious of others or do you believe that others are envious of you?

Do you show arrogant, haughty behaviors or attitudes?

While it is unlikely that you have narcissistic personality disorder, you may be displaying some signs related to it. Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a mental disorder in which someone has inflated self-esteem and sense of their own importance. They experience a lack of empathy for others and feel a deep need for admiration. However, deep inside they have a very vulnerable self-esteem. NPD causes many problems in relationships, school, work and financially. People with NPD may feel unhappy, especially when they are not admired or treated in a special way like they believe they deserve.

While it is unlikely that you have narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), you are displaying some signs related to it. It may be useful to discuss your symptoms, emotions and feelings with your doctor. People with NPD are unlikely to seek treatment, because they don’t believe they have a problem. A diagnosis is usually based on the symptoms that you are experiencing. Additionally, your doctor will do a physical exam to make sure that there is no physical problem causing the symptoms. You may also need to fill out some questionnaires. Remember that you don’t need to be afraid to talk about your symptoms. Getting the right advice or treatment can help you live a happier life.

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among individuals who have narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). It may be highly important to seek medical attention for your symptoms. NPD is usually treated with psychotherapy and sometimes medications may be added. Psychotherapy is focused on teaching you how to relate in a healthy way with others and to understand the underlying cause of your emotions. Therapy can be short term or continuous. It may be important to include family members in the process. Getting a diagnosis will help you understand what help you need to have more satisfying relationships and a more rewarding life in general.