Narcissistic personality disorder is a condition often erroneously mistaken for overconfidence or conceitedness. Sufferers will often monopolise conversations, belittle others, freely express their sense of superiority and entitlement and become depressed, angry or abusive in the face of perceived criticism which raises feelings of insecurity and shame.
There is a theory that gay men may be particularly susceptible to narcissistic personality disorder, as a result of subconscious feelings of intense inadequacy, for which narcissism is an over-compensation. Counselling in London for gay men can offer the opportunity to discuss and resolve these issues. Unresolved, the symptoms of narcissistic personality disorder can have serious consequences, in terms of failure to form meaningful relationships, build friendships and develop careers.
Common indicators
Criteria for diagnosing narcissistic personality disorder are generally considered to be an exaggerated sense of self-importance, feeling superior and expecting to be considered superior by others, exaggerating achievements, fantasising about spectacular successes, demanding constant admiration and compliance, taking advantage of others whilst struggling to recognise their needs and feelings, believing you are envied by others and generally behaving arrogantly. London psychotherapy and counselling for gay men can help open the process of exploring issues that underlie these responses.
When to seek help
Often people experiencing narcissistic personality disorder put off seeking clinical intervention. Their erroneous self-perception as powerful and perfect isolates them from others including medical professionals, and they generally only seek treatment when they experience associated symptoms of depression, as a result of perceived slights or rejections with which they struggle to cope.
Early medical intervention
If you recognize personality traits that are common to narcissistic personality disorder, or you’re experiencing depression, anxiety or a disabling sadness, you should consider contacting your own doctor to discuss these feelings and related concerns, or contacting an experienced counsellor or psychiatrist in London who may be able to offer insight, perspective and the counselling that allows you to confront this life-limiting condition. Getting appropriate treatment could make your life more rewarding and enjoyable.
Getting support
For more information on narcissistic personality disorder, or to book a consultation, contact me today.
You can call Justin on T: 07717 664177 or justin@justinduwe.com
