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Healthy self-esteem and self-worth are beneficial, but an exaggerated self-importance can be problematic. This article aims to provide an overview of this issue and offer guidance on seeking help.
What is a grandiose self-image?
A grandiose self-image means you have an exaggerated sense of your importance or value. Having a healthy sense of self-esteem and self-worth is fundamental to well-being, but in the case of a grandiose self-image, this is not realistic based on situations, nor is it functional, which can lead to problems for you and those around you.
A grandiose self-image can be part of other psychiatric diagnoses, such as severe bipolar disorder, and it is one of the critical features of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). It can also be part of delusions in psychotic illness. These problems require specialized psychiatric care.
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What is a personality disorder?
Personality disorders are complex conditions that affect an individual’s thoughts, feelings and behaviours in ways that often differ markedly from societal norms and expectations.
As people with personality disorders may have difficulty relating to others, this can lead to problems in both personal and professional relationships.
How common are personality disorders?
It is difficult to give exact figures, as many people with personality disorders go undiagnosed and untreated, but it is estimated that around 10% of the population suffers from personality disorders.
What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition with alternating periods of depression and mania or a mixture of the two. These fluctuations can be so extreme that they interfere with a person’s daily life and functioning. The condition comes in different forms, with type 1 being the more severe form with mania, while type 2 is milder with more hypomanic and depressive symptoms.
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How common is bipolar disorder?
According to the National Department of Health, it’s unknown what the prevalence of BPD is in South Africa, but it is believed that about 1% of our population has bipolar disorder.
What is psychotic illness?
Psychotic illness, often just called psychosis, is a psychiatric condition in which a person has difficulty distinguishing between what is real and what is not. Changes in thought processes, perception and behaviour characterize it. Psychosis is not a disease in itself but rather a symptom that can occur in various mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, severe depression, or as a result of certain medical conditions or substance use. It is possible to have a grandiose self-image if you have psychosis.
Treatment for grandiose self-image
Treatment for a grandiose self-image initially involves an assessment by a licensed professional to ensure that the proper care is given. As a grandiose self-image can be part of different types of mental illness and disease, this needs to be assessed first. There can be significant differences in treatment between narcissism, bipolar disorder and other psychotic disorders.
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Treatment of narcissistic personality disorder
The treatment of narcissism, especially in the case of narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), can be longer, but there is room for improvement. There is no specific medication that cures NPS, so psychotherapy is the primary method of treatment. Treatment goals often include helping the individual to understand their feelings and behaviours better, develop healthier relationships, and manage any co-occurring mental health issues. Various treatment methods, such as psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, schema therapy, group therapy, family therapy and medication, can be helpful. Treatment for personality disorders is mainly in specialist psychiatry.
Treatment of bipolar disorder and other psychotic disorders
Bipolar and psychotic disorders are treated in specialist psychiatry and are not something we do at Lavendla. Treatment usually includes medication and psychological treatment. Family members can also receive support as part of the treatment. In addition, the therapy must be adapted to the individual’s specific needs and situation. As these conditions can be severe, it is not uncommon for people with acute illnesses to be admitted to inpatient care. If you or someone you know is experiencing manic or delusional behaviour, you can call 112 or go to an emergency psychiatric hospital.
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12 FAQs about Grandiose Self-Image
What is a grandiose self-image?
A grandiose self-image means you have an exaggerated sense of your importance or value. Having a healthy sense of self-esteem and self-worth is fundamental to well-being, but in a grandiose self-image, this is not realistic based on situations, nor is it functional, which can lead to problems for you and those around you.
What is a personality disorder?
A personality disorder is an enduring pattern of behaviour, worldview and inner experience markedly different from what is expected of those around you. This is because personality disorders can affect one’s ability to relate to others and function effectively in everyday life.
Is narcissism a type of personality disorder?
Yes, narcissistic personality disorder is one of several types. Individuals with narcissism have an exaggerated sense of self-importance and a lack of empathy towards other people.
How is narcissism diagnosed?
A psychiatrist or psychologist usually carries out a diagnosis of narcissism and involves an in-depth interview and interviews with family members. This is generally done in specialist psychiatry.
What treatment options are available for personality disorders?
Treatment can vary depending on the type of disorder and the individual’s unique needs but usually involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication. A care plan involving several different therapists or psychologists is often recommended.
How can I help someone close to me who has a grandiose self-image?
The most crucial step is to encourage the person to seek professional help. You can also offer emotional support but remember that you are not a substitute for qualified care.
Can grandiose self-image occur in other mental health conditions?
Grandiose self-image can occur in conditions such as during mania in bipolar disorders or as part of psychosis in other psychotic disorders. If you have symptoms, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is essential.
Can you force someone to go to therapy?
No, you cannot force someone to undergo treatment. Still, in the case of more severe mental illnesses such as bipolar disorder and other psychotic disorders, compulsory inpatient treatment can be used to prevent self-harm.
How do you treat a grandiose self-image?
First, a professional, often a specialist psychiatrist, must assess the patient. Treatment then usually includes medication and therapy.
What is bipolar disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition with alternating periods of depression and mania or a mixture of the two. These alternations can be so extreme that they disrupt a person’s daily life and functioning.
How common is bipolar disorder?
According to the National Department of Health, it’s unknown what the prevalence is in South Africa, but it is believed that about 1% of our population has bipolar disorder.
What is psychosis?
Psychotic illness, often just called psychosis, is a psychiatric condition in which a person has difficulty distinguishing between what is real and what is not. Psychosis is not a disease in itself but rather a symptom that can occur in various mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, severe depression, or as a result of certain medical conditions or substance use.
Where can I go if I or someone I know has symptoms of grandiose self-image?
To get help, you should contact your health care centre for a referral to specialist psychiatry. Is it possible to get help with this?
