Providing an Intervention for Narcissistic Personality Disorder

An intervention on narcissistic personality disorder, when performed correctly, is an act of empathy and love for a person who is going through a difficult time. Unfortunately, people with NPD can perceive an intervention’s intent in a completely different way. It is a sign of the family’s vulnerability or unwillingness to see how amazing the intervention’s goal is to them.

Although this is a normal reaction in people with a narcissistic personality disorder, it can happen to someone going through an addiction or a mental illness (NPD). People with this condition may and can be approached by intervention; however, when the moment comes to prepare and carry out the intervention for anyone with this disorder, a licensed interventionist might be the best choice.

The Signs and Symptoms of Narcissitic Personality Disorder

Narcissistic Personality Disorder patients have an inflated sense of self-worth. This disorder is one disorder where individuals have an elaborate and overstated sense of self-worth. They also have a strong desire for other people’s admiration and attention.

When they are not given the praise or special favor they believe they deserve, people with NPD may be generally sad and disappointed. Others may regard them as snobbish, arrogant, and dislike being around them.

The Mayo Clinic Lists the Following as Typical Signs of This Psychological Disorder:

• Exaggeration of abilities or achievements
• Demands for consideration that are excessive
• Covetousness
• Some people’s manipulation
• Inability to understand or respect other people’s thoughts or emotions on a fundamental level(1)

Battling with Self-Esteem Issues

Although people with Narcissistic Personality Disorder seem to be overflowing with trust most of the time, they are actually suffering from low self-confidence. They may have a deep-seated belief that they are inferior to other people, but no person has yet noticed this.

As a consequence, an individual with NPD puts on a show that exudes superiority and self-assurance. However, if these people feel disapproval or judgement from another person, they can become enraged and lash out at those they care for the highest.

An individual who has a NPD may even blame others for their problems.

“Someone with NPD may choose to be irresponsible for the actions they commit and may feel qualified to behave in a particular way, simply because she/he has the feeling as though she has been wronged in previous times.”

It is very easy to think that someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder will be successful in life because he dhows forth a grand show of confidence that no other person have a choice but to believe. Although, research implies that those with this disorder tend to have a great amount of problems and difficulties as they age.(2) For instance, they may lose their jobs or battle to maintain their healthy relationships. When this occurs, it is common for those with this disorder to battle depression, and as they grow, their risk of suicide rises up.

The Basics of Narcissistic Personality Disorder’s Intervention

Although the effects of narcissistic personality disorder may be difficult for the individual to cope with, their presence allows the family to have an intervention. In a NPD intervention, the members of the family addresses the implications of the behavior as well as how a rudimentary psychiatric condition might be contributing to the current difficulties.

The aim isn’t to point the finger at the individual or to make fun of the situation. Instead, it gives the family the opportunity to talk about why therapy might be beneficial and to encourage the individual to seek treatment.

Limiting Anosognosia

An intervention can make individuals withNPD feel less anosognosia. This disorder is relatively common in people who have mental disorders, as stated by National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and it reflects a simple inability to recognize that a psychological disorder is at play.(3) There is no concern that arises from the person’s actions with individuals who have this aspect of Narcissistic Personality Disorder. It is always the fault of others.

While helping with NPD, anosognosia is difficult, NAMI recommends taking a supportive technique. Families should concentrate on the person’s happiness, wealth, or health goals and then talk about how therapy will help them achieve those anticipated goals. Arguments are not helpful, but concentrating on goals can help individuals with mental health issues understand that they need help.

A trained interventionist can assist families in practising their speeches so that the time of the intervention itself is not as frightening. Families can also know more about what words, concepts, and strategies function best for individuals who have Narcissistic Personality Disorder during the intervention preparation stage, and they can practice prepared talks that include phrases that could be helpful.

The Challenges With Narcissistic Personality Disorder Interventions

NPD patients are skilled at controlling conversations. They like to twist and transform simple words until the speaker feels guilty or wrong  for speaking up at all. It’s a protective strategy, and people with this disorder have probably been using it for years, if not decades, to escape the need for improvement.

Similarly, some individuals with NPD want to dominate discussions by walking out, interrupting, or yelling. They have been using these tactics to hold their opponents at bay for years. These methods are often effective in getting people to drop the topic or stop talking in the middle of a sentence.

It is understandable that people with NPD will depend on these strategies when an intervention is ongoing. These individuals are highly susceptible to even the tiniest hint of guilt or judgement, and they may feel extremely pressed during an intervention. When their emotions are running heavy, relying on strategies they are familiar with seems rational.

An interventionist may assist families in preparing for these occurrences. When these patterns emerge during an intervention, interventionists may identify them and intervene.(4) Family members should be able to remain calm and repeat the things they have written for the intervention and avoid being dragged into a disagreement about whether they have done their homework.

It is essential to stick to the script at all times. This may include allowing the patient to speak freely before returning to the subject at hand. Allowing the individual with Narcissistic Personality Disorder to take a short break and leave the intervention room when need be from time to time is also fair. When depression and rage begin to overtake the individual, the intervention is attempting to support, and this can be helpful.

When Intervention Is Non-productive

It is essential to acknowledge and know that not every treatment affecting individuals with NPD are successful. An individual with Narcissistic Personality Disorder would not always allow himself to obtain the help he needs, even when provided with evidence that may contribute to it.

Family members may seek care on their own if an intervention fails. When dealing with someone who has no regard for boundaries, family counselling will help their loved ones learn how to create boundaries. In some instances, family members may feel compelled to cut contact with individuals who are unable or unwilling to seek treatment. Therapy sessions can give a loved one the space they need to work on a healthy relationship with someone who isn’t reciprocating.

Getting a Solution for Narcissistic Personality Disorder

If an intervention fails, some interventionists remain in touch with their clients and refer them to counselling or support groups that may help. These interventionists can also assist families in having follow-up conversations about addiction or psychological disorder when the individual appears more at ease with the concept of seeking treatment.

Talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy, is the most common form of treatment for Narcissistic Personality Disorder. If signs of NPD coexist with depression or another mental health problem, the other illness may be treated with appropriate medications. NPD, on another side, is not treatable with medicine.

Talk therapy will help you improve your interpersonal relationships and make them more fun, intimate, and satisfying. Good relationships with others can significantly enhance a variety of aspects of your life.

In Addition, Talk Therapy Will Teach You how To:

• Collaborate more effectively with coworkers and peers
• Keep your personal relationships intact
• Recognize your potential and abilities so that you can accept criticism and disappointment.
• Recognize and control your emotions
• Deal with some problems with self-esteem
• Set attainable objectives for yourself

Since personality patterns are difficult to alter, counselling can take many years before you see results. You can begin to see therapy as a waste of time during this time and be tempted to stop. It’s important, though, to stick to the treatment plan for NPD. Using the Healthline FindCare tool, you can find a doctor in your area.

Attend any of your therapy sessions and take any drugs prescribed by your doctor to treat NPD. You’ll notice a difference in yourself and your relationships with others as time goes by.

The Lifestyle Changes Mentioned Below Can Be Beneficial as You Progress Through Therapy.

• Alcohol, narcotics, and other substances that cause harmful habits should be avoided.
• To improve your mood, exercise at least three days a week.
• Reduce tension and anxiety by practicing relaxation exercises such as yoga and meditation.

It takes time to recover from a NPD. Keep yourself motivated by remembering your recovery goals and reminding yourself that you should work to fix broken relationships in order to be happier in your life and fix the narcissistic personality disorder.

Sources

1. “NPD.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 18 Nov. 2017.
2. “NPD: Reconsidering What We Know.” Psychiatric Times. Accessed July 25, 2018.
3. “Anosognosia.” National Alliance on Mental Illness, NAMI Accessed on July 25, 2018.
4. “What Is an Intervention? Learn Intervention.” Association Of Intervention Specialists, AIS. Accessed July 25, 2018.