Anyone know about Narcissistic personality disorder?

I think I might have that Narcissistic personality disorder as all I think about is myself really and am really annoyed and think a lot about stupid things back in my childhood which other kids got like some kids were not smacked and had there mum all day whereas mine worked full time. Also recently I read a thread and have since been very annoyed that I wasn't breast fed I think why should other babies get the best nutrition and I didn't. Im also annoyed that people can easily make friends and I can't. I know that others would think Im being very unreasonable thats why I don't say anything but Ive just looked up this disorder and think it sounds like me, what do you think? It might explain why im annoyed at the above and find it hard to make friends. Does it sound like I have an exaggerated sense of self importance?

:Narcissistic personality disorder

An exaggerated sense of self-importance and need for approval
Fragile, low self-esteem
Inability to assume perspective of others

There is also this article http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narcissistic_personality_disorder#Diagnostic_criteria Ive looked at the diagnostic criteria on there and have ever characteristic except - takes advantage of others and arrogant behaviour. I used to believe I was special but i don't anymore.

Does anyone here fit the criteria? If so then maybe im just worrying over nothing :redface:

Reply 1

Meliae

Lots of people read about illnesses on the internet and attempt to diagnose themselves. I know someone who's convinced herself she has almost every mental illness going. There's a good chance you don't have that disorder. What you described in the first paragraph could just be a bit of jealousy and/or regret or something. If you want a proper diagnosis, you'll have to go see a real psychiatrist because no-one can diagnose you here from that. Also, a lot of mental illnesses/disorders overlap so you don't necessarily have NPD.

Reply 2

ShaolinTemple

the whole personality disorder facade is controversial.

Reply 3

Seoid

The fact that you're asking us about this means you don't have it. Simple as.

Reply 4

Sarahl89

you could diagnose yourself with just about anything nowadays if you really wanted to.

Reply 5

Anonymous #1

Seoid

The fact that you're asking us about this means you don't have it. Simple as.

How so? Is it not possible to have a mental illness but also have insight?

Reply 6

Seoid

Anonymous

How so? Is it not possible to have a mental illness but also have insight?

The very essence of narcissism is a completely self-centred nature - if you did have it you really wouldn't care.

Reply 7

Francophobia

My ex has this. The diagnostic criteria don't give a clear picture of exactly what the disorder can be like -- he's abusive, unfaithful, misogynistic, emotionally unstable, arrogant, childish, and is completely obsessed with the idea of becoming a great genius. He also has no conscience and is unable to empathise with other people. Most importantly, he lacks insight into the fact that he is extremely disturbed, and believes that his behaviour is completely rational and it's other people who are the ones with problems.
Worrying about whether or not you're mentally ill is a sign of sanity. You may be envious and resentful, and have certain other personality traits that you're conscious of, but that's by no means pathological, and it certainly doesn't sound like NPD.

Reply 8

Profesh

Narcissistic Personality Disorder is a form of sociopathy; unless you're incapable of empathising with anyone, I rather doubt that this is what you have.