“One critical area of distinction between the two pathologies is that for people with bipolar [disorder], symptoms such as energy and grandiosity are seen specifically in episodes of elevated mood, whereas narcissism represents an underlying personality style that endures over time,” says Russ Federman, PhD, a Virginia ...
Some bipolar mania symptoms mimic narcissistic traits. True NPD alongside BD is rare. Genetics, brain chemistry, and childhood trauma may all contribute to the development of these disorders. They're diagnosed through mental health evaluations and treated with medications and psychotherapy.
Control is a subtle art, and often controlling people have been practicing it for decades. A portion of the bipolar population becomes “controlling.” This at first can show up as a talkative and outgoing, but soon suggestions and discussions become manipulative.
Based on some overlapping symptoms, borderline personality disorder (BPD) and narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) are two mental health disorders that are often mistaken for one another.
He experiences brief periods of mania. Then he can be entertaining, charming, and charismatic. Then he is "full of ideas and plans", attractive and leader-like. In the manic phase, he is restless (often insomniac), full of pent up energy, explosive, dramatic, creative, an excellent performer and manager.
Anger Outbursts & Rage
Rage outbursts are commonly seen during a narcissistic collapse episode. In the narcissist's mind, it is easier to be angry than deal with the uncomfortable emotions of embarrassment, rejection, or shame. Rage is especially typical with vindictive narcissists.
Symptoms That Overlap: Grandiosity and Lack of Empathy
Considering the aforementioned symptoms, it is clear where overlap occurs. Those experiencing manic or hypomanic bipolar episodes may present with narcissistic traits such as: Grandiosity. Lack of empathy.
Histrionic personality disorder (HPD) and narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) are part of the same cluster, which includes disorders characterized by heightened emotions and dramatic or unpredictable behaviors.
They are hypocritical. Narcissism and hypocrisy go hand in hand because hypocrisy is a form of entitlement. Most narcissists believe the rules don't apply to them, even though they are quick to enforce them on everyone else. This goes for many types of rules, including budgets.
Studies also suggest that many narcissists do not even recognize their own behaviour as being problematic or damaging to themselves or others. This means that even if they are aware of how they are behaving, they may not think it's wrong or harmful and may not see any need for change.
A “bipolar meltdown” is, much like “bipolar anger,” a very stigmatizing phrase, and not something that really exists. The phrase “bipolar meltdown” could refer to a bipolar person having a manic episode or being in a depressed state.
Grandiosity and overconfidence. Easy tearfulness, frequent sadness. Needing little sleep to feel rested. Uncharacteristic impulsive behavior.
If you have bipolar and wish to repair relationships damaged by your behavior (whether while symptomatic or not), it is vital to first recognize the other person's feelings and pain. Admitting to your actions and acknowledging the harm they caused your loved one is a good first step in the process of making amends.
Bipolar disorder can cause a lack of empathy, but symptoms may also make it more challenging to focus on the feelings of others. While there is no medication to improve empathy, treating bipolar disorder can help. Introspection, guided emotional learning, and observing emotions in others may also help build empathy.
To Satisfy Needs for Attention. The person with bipolar might be using emotional manipulation to get attention from those who are close to them. It is not uncommon for a person with bipolar to lash out at the person who provides the most care or practical support.
Warning Signs Of An Aging Narcissist
Become more reclusive and only want to spend time with people they feel are worthy of their attention. May lose interest in the people around them altogether. May find that they are no longer able to tolerate the imperfections of others and may lash out in anger or frustration.
They commonly regift items, leave their wallets at home, or refuse to share. Because they don't adhere to social norms, they don't care if people are affected by their cheapness. It's no wonder most narcissists don't have close friends. Narcissists, however, may show off their wealth to other people.
Borderline personality disorder is one of the most painful mental illnesses since individuals struggling with this disorder are constantly trying to cope with volatile and overwhelming emotions.
Narcissistic personality disorder affects more males than females, and it often begins in the teens or early adulthood. Some children may show traits of narcissism, but this is often typical for their age and doesn't mean they'll go on to develop narcissistic personality disorder.
Type As can also be dangerous to narcissists
Although they can be targeted, type A people can also become a narcissist's worst nightmare. One of the most important defenses against dark personalities is having strong boundaries yourself, and type A people are usually aware they have the right to build them.
Rumour has it that SSRI's (such as Fluoxetine, known as Prozac) might have adverse effects if the primary disorder is NPD. They sometimes lead to the Serotonin syndrome, which includes agitation and exacerbates the rage attacks typical of a narcissist.
Individuals with bipolar disorder may have a heightened sense of self-confidence and a reduced filter in their speech during manic episodes. This can cause them to speak harshly and say things they may not mean or fully consider the implications of.
Narcissists are known for taking things out of context. This is their way of twisting the truth and making you look bad. For example, if you tell them you need some time alone, they may interpret this as you being uninterested in them. They will then use this against you by accusing you of being selfish and uncaring.