What is a narcissist, or what is the meaning of “narcissist”? The word is often used casually to refer to someone who is self-centered, vain, or doesn’t care about other people’s feelings. Those are common traits of narcissism, but not every person with an inflated sense of self needs the support of a narcissism treatment center. Narcissism is a mental health condition. If you think you or someone you love might be living with narcissistic personality disorder, help is available.
Asking questions like, “What is narcissism, what are the signs, and how do I get support for it?” can lead you to the mental health treatment that can help. Promises Behavioral Health has mental and behavioral health treatment centers across the United States. We offer inpatient and outpatient programs targeted to address specific mental health concerns, including narcissism. Call 844.875.5609 today for more information about narcissism treatment at Promises locations.
What Is Narcissism?
What is the meaning of “narcissist”? Narcissistic personality disorder is a diagnosable mental health condition. However, it’s also possible to exhibit narcissistic behavior or attitudes without meeting the diagnostic criteria for narcissistic personality disorder. The hallmarks of narcissism are an inability to empathize with others and an inflated sense of one’s abilities. Narcissists often view themselves as superior to others but also crave attention, admiration, and approval.
Narcissistic personality disorder is diagnosed based on a psych evaluation and an assessment of symptoms and how they impact an individual’s life and relationships.
What Is the Meaning of “Narcissist?”
You might be wondering, what is the meaning of “narcissist?” While narcissistic personality disorder is a clinical term, “narcissist” is not. An individual undergoing treatment for this disorder may choose to self-identify as a narcissist, but the word itself is not used in clinical settings.
The term “narcissist” is primarily used casually. It can refer to an individual diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder. Still, it is often used to describe someone with narcissistic traits, behaviors, or attitudes.
What Are the Common Signs of Narcissism?
Now that the meaning of “narcissist” is clear, it’s best to explore the definition of the clinical term further. Narcissism can take many forms. Even when an individual meets the criteria for a diagnosis, how narcissistic traits manifest in an individual’s actions and attitudes can vary widely.
Some of the most common signs of narcissism include:
- Lack of empathy
- Sense of superiority
- Inflated sense of self-importance
- Exaggerated view of abilities
- Need for approval
- Attention-seeking behaviors
- Rule breaking
- Excessive concern with appearance
- Desire for control
Some individuals may exhibit all of these traits, while others might show just a few. It’s not always easy to know when a person has a narcissistic attitude, especially if they possess the self-awareness to recognize that their beliefs and feelings differ from those held by others.
Some individuals with narcissism may lack empathy for others but know how to mimic it convincingly. Similarly, a narcissist may hold attitudes of grandiosity or superiority but try to refrain from expressing them around others.
How Is Narcissism Treated?
If you have questions like, “What is a narcissist?” or you’re wondering if you or a loved one display narcissistic traits, your first step should be to speak with a mental health treatment center that offers targeted programs for narcissism. Narcissism is primarily treated through talk therapy. Medication may be used in conjunction with therapy when co-occurring conditions are present, such as depression.
Diagnosing narcissism and moving away from narcissistic behaviors requires honesty and a willingness to make changes.
Find Treatment for Narcissism with Promises Behavioral Health
Untreated narcissism damages relationships and harms the quality of life of the narcissist and their loved ones. If you struggle to navigate life with a narcissist, know you’re not alone.
Promises Behavioral Health offers a narcissism treatment program. We help individuals with narcissism learn to reframe their thoughts and behaviors to build stronger relationships and achieve a healthier way of relating to others. Contact Promises today at 844.875.5609 to learn more about what a narcissist is and treatment for the mental health condition at our locations across the United States.