Control of Narcissism & Sociopath tendencies

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders identifies two main disorders that may be evident in individuals. These personality disorders are Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and Antisocial personality disorder (APD). Individuals with both disorders, although less likely, are considered narcissistic sociopaths.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Narcissistic personality disorder is one of the several types of personality disorders. It is a mental condition in which people have a deep need for excessive admiration and attention, lack empathy for others, possess an inflated sense of their own importance, and have difficulty in relationships.

Narcissistic personally disorder may increase the risk of other health issues, including depression, anxiety, physical health problems, misuse of drugs, alcohol, and suicidal thoughts.

Individuals with this disorder may have difficulty with work, school, financial affairs, and in relationships. When narcissistic individuals are not given the special admiration and favours that they believe they deserve, they generally become disappointed and unhappy. They feel that their relationships are unfulfilled and in turn, tend to struggle in keeping relationships.

More males than females are affected by this disorder, and it begins in early adulthood/teen years. Although the cause of this disorder is not exactly known, some researchers have suggested that over-parenting and neglectful behavior in biologically vulnerable children is the reason of this personality disorder. In the development of narcissistic personality disorder, genetics and neurology may play an important role.

Causes of Narcissistic Personality Disorder

As this disorder is very complex, the causes of Narcissistic personality disorder is not exactly known. However, it is known that this disorder is associated with:

Environment:  Unhealthy child and parent relationship, with excessive criticism or adoration that can lead to poor childhood experiences.

Genetics: These are the inherited characteristics.

Neurobiology: Involve the connection between the brain and behavior of thinking.

Treatment of Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Psychotherapy is the main treatment of this disorder. If you have other mental health conditions, medications may also be taken. The individuals suffering from this disorder generally do not  seek out treatment themselves, unless they experience extreme depression, stress, or their partner or family members insists they seek help.

Psychotherapy

The treatment of Narcissistic disorder is centered on talk therapy which is also called psychotherapy. It can help with:

• Making your relationship enjoyable, rewarding, and more intimate, as well as learn to work better with others.
• Realizing the cause of your emotions and the things that drive you to not trust others.
• Tolerating and realizing the effect of issues that is related to your self-esteem.
• Releasing your desire for goals that are unattainable, help you accept the goals that are attainable, and help determine the goals you can accomplish in the future.
• Accept and recognize your potential and competence so you can bear failures and criticisms.
• Maintain and accept your real personal relationships and help with strategies to better collaborate with co-workers.
• Boost your ability to realize and regulate your emotions and feelings.

In times of stress and crises, therapy can help manage this disorder. Goal setting and self-reflection can be a great tool. Sometimes, the presence of family members and close relationships in therapy meetings can be helpful.

Medications

There are no specific medication treatments for the patients suffering from Narcissistic Personality Disorder. However, antidepressants or anti-anxiety drugs are sometimes prescribed for depression, anxiety, and such other conditions.

Lifestyle and home remedies

You may feel like the treatment of this disorder is unnecessary. You may also feel that this therapy is not worth your time and attention. As a result, you may always be tempted to quit. But it is really important to:

Stick to your treatment plan: Try to attend all the therapy sessions and take medicines as prescribed by the doctor. You may have occasional setbacks, but it is an essential and effective part of treatment.

Stay focused on your goal: Keep yourself motivated by your ideal goals and keep in mind what you are working on to repair your damaged relationships.

Keep an open mind: Stay motivated and keep a focus on the rewards of treatment.

Get treatment for substance abuse or underlying mental health concerns:

Your anxiety, depression, addictions, and stress can lead you to a cycle of unhealthy behavior and emotional pain.

Preparing for your appointment

You can start your treatment with the help of a doctor or it is possible that maybe your doctor refers you to an expert of mental health treatment such as psychologist and psychiatrist.

Before the appointment, creating a list may be beneficial. This list can include:

• Any symptoms you are experiencing and for how long – This will help pinpoint  things or events that make you feel upset or angry.
• Medical information – Including your physical and mental health conditions which may be diagnosed in recent times.
• Key personal information – Including any traumatic major stressors or traumatic events in your past life.
• Any medications – Including herbs, vitamins, or other supplements that you are consuming and other dosages.
• Questions – It is recommended to make a list of questions that you can ask from your doctor to make your appointment effective.

It is also suggested to take a trusted family member or friend to your appointment. This can help you remember the details.

Antisocial Personality Disorder

Every personality is distinctive. Antisocial disorder is a mental health condition that causes violations and patterns of manipulation with others.

Antisocial personality disorder begins during childhood or in early teenage years and continues into adulthood. It can be displayed through long-lasting patterns of:

• Ignoring the law
• Disobey the rights of others
• Exploiting and manipulating others

When individuals with Antisocial Personality Disorder break the law, they commonly simply don’t care. They generally place others at risk without feelings of guilt.

According to a study in Alcohol Research and Health, approximately 3% of men and 1% of women have antisocial personality disorder.

People suffering from antisocial personality disorder do not feel that they need to take help from others. However, because of depression, anxiety, or angry outburst, they may seek help from their care provider. Symptoms of antisocial personality disorder may include:

• Anger and arrogance
• Stealing
• Breaking the law
• Manipulating others
• Acting aggressively
• Lack of consideration for the safety of others and personal safety
• No remorse or guilt for wrong doings

People who suffer from this disorder are at a higher risk of substance abuse. According to research, individuals living with antisocial personality disorder who consume alcohol experience increased symptoms of ASPD.

How a person relates to others is the key factor to diagnosing this disorder, as individuals may not show accurate symptoms and signs of this disorder.

After a medical evaluation, the primary care provider may refer such patients to a mental health professional for further treatment and to examine all medical conditions.

Identification of antisocial personality disorders are typically based on:

• Medical and personal history
• A psychological evaluation that investigates relationships, behavior patterns, thoughts, and family history
• All the symptoms are listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders that are published by the American Psychiatric Association

Typically, this disorder has shown to be difficult to diagnose before the age of 18, however, some symptoms may present themselves in early teen years. To improve the long term effects and outcomes, it is important to diagnose this disorder and begin proper treatment.

Causes of Antisocial Personality Disorder

The exact reason for antisocial personality disorder is unknown. However, environmental factors and genetics are shown to play an important role. Antisocial Personality Disorder appears to be more prevalent in male populations who experienced:

• Childhood abuse
• Grew up with an alcoholic parent
• Or have a parent with Antisocial Personality Disorder
• Treatment

Treatment may vary person to person, and is largely dependent on the individuals willingness to accept treatment and cooperation with doctors, and severity of symptoms.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is an effective treatment for individuals living with antisocial personality disorder. Therapy is recommended for alcohol/substance use, anger and violence management, and other mental health conditions.

Cognitive behavioral therapy is often used to help proactively change negative behaviors and thoughts. It also assists in changing lifestyle habits and ways of thinking.

Medications

Doctors may prescribe antidepressants, anti-anxiety, antipsychotic medications, or mood stabilizing medications to treat mental health problems such as anxiety and depression. Due to the potential of misuse, certain medications are prescribed with caution, under close supervision of a doctor.