Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a medical condition that can affect one’s physical, neurological, and/ or emotional functioning. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines a traumatic brain injury as “a disruption in the normal function of the brain that can be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or penetrating head injury.” The specific symptoms that develop because of a TBI will vary significantly, as they depend on the type of injury, the severity of the injury, as well as the area of the brain that was injured. The nature of the symptoms can shift as some TBI symptoms may appear immediately and dissipate rather quickly, while others could present several days or weeks later, and some experienced symptoms may evolve over time.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is one of ten different types of personality disorders that are recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). It is a chronic mental health condition that is characterized by a long-term pattern of exaggerated feelings of self-importance. The Mayo Clinic explains that individuals with a narcissistic personality disorder “have an inflated sense of their own importance, a deep need for excessive attention and admiration, troubled relationships, and a lack of empathy for others.” Most often beneath the grandiose façade, individuals diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder are hiding and avoiding profound feelings of insecurity. An estimated 5% of the U.S population may have a narcissistic personality disorder, which means over 16 million people might experience the condition.
NPD and TBI
The Journal of Neurology, Psychiatry and Brain Research asserts “Chronic ailments are likely to lead to the emergence of narcissistic traits or a narcissistic personality style. Traumas (such as brain injuries) have been known to induce states of mind akin to full-blown personality disorders.” Psychiatric News discusses various published studies of all personality disorders with findings that indicate between 11% and nearly 13% of patients with TBI also demonstrate personality disorders, and of those, only about 0.61% appear to present with a narcissistic personality disorder. The answer to the question: Can a brain injury cause narcissistic personality disorder? If yes; there are cases that show that narcissistic personality disorder is caused by head trauma.
For Information and Support
If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse and/ or addiction, we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. If left untreated, substance abuse can result in long-lasting and potentially life-threatening consequences. Keep in mind: you are not alone! There is an entire network of professionals that are available to help and support you and your loved one throughout the recovery process. The earlier you seek support, the sooner your loved one can return to a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life.
Please do not hesitate to reach out with any questions regarding our specific program at Haven House Addiction Treatment and/ or general substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment-related information. Our highly trained staff is readily available to discuss how we might best be able to help you and your loved one. We can be reached by phone at 424-258-6792. You are also welcome to contact anytime us via email at admissions@hhtxc.com.
