The Public Health Crisis of Narcissistic Abuse
The Public Health Crisis of Narcissistic Abuse
Today, with the prevalence of social media, the topic of narcissism and narcissistic abuse has been on the rise. You likely see more posts about the issue on social media, articles and studies, or health professionals speaking out. With the topic in the spotlight and the public beginning to truly understand the dangers of narcissism, more people finally have the platform to speak about the abuse they’ve endured.
While narcissism is in the spotlight, it’s more than just a trendy topic. It’s a personality disorder that impacts many, including those diagnosed, undiagnosed, and those they love.
It’s a dangerous public health crisis that deserves more attention and understanding.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder, or NPD, is a personality disorder that is defined by feelings of grandiosity or enhanced self-worth, a general need for admiration, and an overall lack of empathy for anyone other than themselves. These symptoms, at first glance, can seem harmless, but they present themselves in ways of abusive tendencies towards their partners, children, colleagues, and friends.
A narcissistic person can have all traits present or just a few. Still, whether diagnosed or undiagnosed, these behaviors are harmful, and there are many additional ways a narcissist presents that are not listed in the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. They can be controlling, emotionally abusive, isolate those so that the attention is focused only on them, and even escalate to physical abuse, just to name a few.
Understanding Narcissistic Abuse as a Health Crisis
Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is even more common than you may think. Studies have shown that anywhere from 0.5% to 15% of the US population shows symptoms of NPD but may not be officially diagnosed.
Think about it. The population of the United States alone is over 331 million people as of the last US census. If up to 15% of the population are diagnosed or undiagnosed narcissists, that’s almost 50 million people possibly abusing or negatively impacting the lives of at least one person. And likely, that number is even higher. Narcissists abuse family, friends, and even work colleagues through many tactics narcissists use to exert control over those around them. That’s just in the United States.
To say narcissistic abuse is a public health crisis is an understatement. One of the biggest problems our health professionals face today is simply diagnosing narcissistic personality disorder in those who show the signs and symptoms. The personality traits that makeup NPD can vary, and not only that, but NPD can coexist with other personality disorders. It makes the official diagnosis even more of a challenge.
Even more shocking, the system itself seems built to work against the abused. Many undiagnosed narcissists gravitate towards careers with influence and power. Those very roles that are meant to protect you and your children may have a narcissist serving. These people are your teachers, professors, police officers, doctors, lawyers, politicians, and much more. It makes it hard for anyone to find support as they navigate relationships with a narcissist.
Narcissism is a complex personality disorder. You can’t rely on the system to provide you everything you need to protect yourself and those you love. Because diagnosing Narcissistic Personality Disorder is incredibly challenging, the understanding weighs heavily on the people directly involved.
Recognizing the signs in your partner, family members, friends, and coworkers can help you understand their behaviors and, if needed, take steps to protect those around the narcissist. For many, this can be the difference between life and death, as the abuse of a narcissist can be damaging in many ways.
A lot of information floating around on social media could be misleading. If you want to learn more, research public medical articles and studies or contact a professional who can help you better understand Narcissist Personality Disorder and how it can impact those around you.
There is hope, whether you know a narcissist or are experiencing narcissistic traits. For the narcissist, support is available to help get the diagnosis needed to move forward with the care required to improve their well-being and the lives of those around them.
If you are a family or friend suffering at the hands of a narcissist, it’s essential to set boundaries and get the support you need to protect your emotional, physical, and mental health.
