Guide To Diagnosing And Treating Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Physical Exam

Another aspect of the diagnostic process is a physical exam. Most mental health disorders require a physical exam to rule out physical causes. For example, some neurological disorders can cause problems with the way individuals think and process emotions. Any damage or pressure against certain areas of the brain will affect the way individuals interpret reality. The doctor may also do tests to rule out other physical illnesses.

Non-neurological physical issues do not often cause personality disorders. However, feelings of deep sadness and dissatisfaction in life can be caused by a myriad of conditions. For example, hypothyroidism can make patients feel lethargic and depressed. This condition is treated through medication to supplement low thyroid hormones. Suppose the doctor orders blood tests and does a physical exam without finding anything wrong. In that case, they can then attribute the patient's behavioral and emotional symptoms to mental health issues.

Discover the diagnostic criteria for this condition next.