A neuropsychiatrist says that 'calling anyone selfish or insensitive a narcissist can trivialize a psychiatric diagnosis.'

The everyday use of the word "narcissist" to describe selfish, insensitive, or manipulative people on social media can lead to a misunderstanding of a serious mental disorder, warned Dr. Edilberto Peña, neuropsychiatrist and director of the Nervous System Research Center (CISNE Mexico). According to the specialist, this practice trivializes a psychiatric diagnosis that should be made with precise clinical criteria.

Narcissistic personality disorder is a condition recognized by diagnostic manuals such as the DSM-5 and is characterized by a persistent pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy. Diagnosis requires the presence of at least five specific criteria, including exaggerated achievements, beliefs of superiority, expectations of special treatment, exploitative attitudes, and arrogance.

These traits must manifest consistently from early adulthood and significantly affect the individual's personal, occupational, or social functioning. Dr. Peña emphasizes that observing self-centered or cold behaviors in a person is not enough to make a clinical judgment. Only a trained professional can determine whether a personality disorder exists through a detailed evaluation.

"Calling anyone who is selfish, insensitive, or has difficulty forming healthy relationships a 'narcissist' can trivialize a psychiatric diagnosis that should be made with great care," he stated in a post on 'Su Médico'.

In the collective imagination, the term "narcissist" is often associated with malicious behavior. However, Dr. Peña clarifies that many people with this disorder have fragile self-esteem, heightened sensitivity to rejection , and a deep need for external validation. The image of superiority they project can mask insecurity and emotional suffering.

Some of these people don't recognize the existence of a problem and therefore don't seek help. Others do seek help, usually as a result of personal conflicts or associated symptoms such as anxiety or depression.

"It's not enough for someone to act poorly in a relationship or be self-centered in a particular situation. Diagnosis can only be made by a trained mental health professional, after a careful clinical evaluation," the specialist points out.

Psychotherapy is the primary treatment for narcissistic personality disorder. The goal of the therapeutic process is to help the patient develop a more realistic self-image, improve interpersonal relationships, and strengthen self-esteem. In cases where additional symptoms such as depression or impulsivity are present, the use of medication may complement psychotherapeutic intervention.

There are no specific medications for this disorder, but certain psychotropic medications can help control symptoms that hinder therapeutic progress.

"Some people with this disorder may not seek help because they don't recognize they have a problem. But others do seek help, often due to recurring conflicts or symptoms of depression and anxiety. This is where professional intervention can make a difference," Peña said.

Dr. Peña also addressed the growing phenomenon on digital platforms where people are labeled as "narcissists" based on personal experiences or isolated behaviors. While it's understandable to seek explanations for troubled relationships, assigning unfounded clinical labels can be inaccurate and counterproductive.

"It's better to talk about toxic relationships, emotional immaturity, or incompatibility when there's no medical diagnosis," he said.

“Talking about mental health responsibly is essential,” the specialist concluded. “Narcissistic personality disorder is not a fad or an excuse, but a clinical condition that deserves to be understood and treated appropriately.”

El Universal (Mexico) / GDA

*This content was rewritten with the assistance of artificial intelligence, based on information from El Universal (GDA), and reviewed by the journalist and an editor.