Learn how these disorders overlap.
These are two conditions that require lifelong treatment.
While they are fundamentally different, there is some overlap between the symptoms of each condition.
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Someone diagnosed with bipolar disorder will experience manic or hypomanic anddepressiveepisodes.
For example, someone with this illness may become obsessed with fantasies of immense success and power.
Grandiosity is also a clear indicator of this condition.
Some experiencing this illness will be convinced they have a talent or quality that sets them above others.
What’s the Connection Between Bipolar Disorder and Narcissism?
When someone is manic, they may have an inflated sense of self-esteem or displaygrandiosebehaviors.
For example, they may believe theyre a genius or one of the most attractive people in the world.
With grandiosity can come setting impossibly high goals, and strong impulsivity may be involved.
Sometimes mania isnt just intense feelings of confidence and excitement.
People who are experiencing a manic episode may become irritable or angry.
In moments of rage or severe impulsivity, it can appear that they lack empathy for those around them.
As a result, narcissistic traits may not be as pronounced.
Bipolar disorder begins to present in thelate teen or early adulthood years.
Narcissistic personality disorder traits also begin to present around the same time, usually in early adulthood.
Diagnosing bipolar disorder and narcissistic personality disorder requires a mental health assessment.
Bipolar Disorder and NPD Treatment
There isnt a cure for either of these disorders.
That being said, treatment options are available that can help folks manage each of these conditions.
Sometimesantipsychoticsmay be prescribed as well.
NPD Treatment
There are no FDA-approved medications for the treatment of NPD.
However, doctors have found that medication is sometimes necessary to treat the presenting symptoms.
Similar to bipolar disorder, doctors may prescribe mood stabilizers or antipsychotics, and psychotherapy is recommended.
However, unlike bipolar, some doctors may prescribeantidepressantsto people with NPD.
In addition to finding a qualifiedmental health professional, it can be very helpful to find social support.
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).Bipolar disorder.
Mitra P, Fluyau D.Narcissistic personality disorder.
Treasure Island, FL.
StatPearls Publishing; 2022.
