ADHD and narcissism and different types of mental health conditions. Yet, they can directly impact a person’s relationships, ability to function, and work or school. However, recent research into ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder) and NPD (narcissistic personality disorder) have found there can be some overlap of symptoms. Additionally, in some instances, both conditions could co-occur simultaneously.
Overview of NPD and ADHD
NPD is a mental health disorder where the individual exhibits narcissistic behaviors, such as:
- A lack of empathy
- An exaggerated sense of self-importance
- Deserving of special treatment by others
- Sense of entitlement
- Needing constant admiration and validation from others
- Manipulating others to achieve their goals without regard for others’ feelings
- Patterns of grandiosity
- Struggling to form meaningful relationships
Narcissism is a less severe form of NPD that is on the spectrum. So, some people may have narcissism but not NPD.
ADHD is usually diagnosed in childhood and adolescence and continues into adulthood. Common symptoms associated with ADHD are:
- Difficulties concentrating and paying attention
- Easily being distracted
- Impulsivity and making snap decisions without any thought about the consequences
- Hyperactivity
- Restlessness
- Agitation and irritability
- Time management and organization issues
- Mood swings
- Difficulties managing stress
- Emotional dysregulation
ADHD vs. Narcissism: Similarities and Differences
ADHD and narcissism, as well as NPD, can share some similar traits. However, there are also some major differences between these conditions.
Similarities of ADHD, Narcissism, and NPD
- Attention-seeking and validation: People with any of these conditions can engage in attention-seeking and validation behaviors from others. However, they are for different reasons.
- Impulsive behaviors: Impulsivity can be a common shared trait between these three conditions. However, the reason for impulsive behavior is different. Someone with ADHD can seem impulsive because they are having difficulties concentrating and focusing. Whereas someone with narcissism or NPD can be impulsive because they are attempting to impress others.
- Emotional dysregulation: People with these conditions often struggle with emotional regulation, which can lead to mood swings, irritability, and outbursts.
Differences of ADHD, Narcissism, and NPD
- Self-esteem: People with ADHD often find their self-esteem varies based on how they are feeling. While people with narcissism and NPD have a sense of self-entitlement, so their self-esteem is usually inflated.
- Motivation: Those with ADHD can find it difficult to remain motivated at times, depending on how their symptoms are affecting them. Conversely, those with narcissism and NPD are often self-motivated out of a sense of superiority, entitlement, or wanting validation from others.
- Relationship issues: The impulsivity, inattention, and difficulties focusing associated with ADHD can have direct impacts on relationships and cause problems maintaining meaningful ones. For people with narcissism or NPD, their relationship issues often stem from attempting to exploit and manipulate others or their sense of entitlement.
- Empathy: People with ADHD can find it difficult to show empathy but are still empathetic. They may struggle with recognizing social cues or be distracted when they should be empathetic. People with narcissism and NPD are not empathetic because they are more focused on their own self-importance.
Are People with ADHD Narcissists?
Most people diagnosed with ADHD are not narcissists. While they can share some traits, the underlying reasons for their behaviors are completely different from those of a narcissist. However, in unique cases, some people can have co-occurring ADHD and NPD, but it should not be assumed that people with ADHD are also narcissists and vice versa.
For example, when someone with ADHD is inattentive and appears to lack empathy when they are made aware of their behavior, they often feel guilty of not being receptive. Yet, when someone has NPD, they will not be bothered or have any regard, even after being made aware of their behavior. To them, they are more important than another’s feelings.
Furthermore, people with ADHD rarely exhibit grandiose behaviors or attempt to manipulate others. They are very self-critical of themselves and lack self-confidence in most cases. Instead, they often feel like they are not as good as others. This, alone, can be one effective way to differentiate between ADHD and narcissism.
Is There a Connection Between ADHD and Narcissism?
The primary connection between ADHD and narcissism is related to genetics. People with a family member who has ADHD or NPD can have a higher risk of developing the condition themselves.
There is also a connection where adults with ADHD can be more susceptible to other mental health disorders, including borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder, and NPD. However, just because there is a connection does not mean ADHD will lead to NPD or NPD will lead to ADHD.
It is equally important to remember ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects the part of the brain responsible for cognitive functioning. Whereas NPD is a personality disorder that affects the way a person behaves, thinks, and feels.
How to Tell if You Have ADHD or NPD?
To tell if you have ADHD or NPD, the best thing to do is examine your symptoms. Common symptoms of ADHD include:
- Impulsivity
- Difficulties concentrating, focusing, and paying attention
- Forgetfulness
- Hyperactivity
- Disorganization
The common symptoms of NPD include:
- Lack of empathy
- Preoccupation with fantasies about wealth, success, power, beauty, etc.
- Need for validation and praise from others
- An exaggerated sense of self-importance
- Grandiose view of oneself
- Expected special treatment from others
- Emotional outbursts
If you are experiencing symptoms of ADHD or NPD or overlapping symptoms, it is best to seek a professional diagnosis from a psychiatrist.
Treating NPD and ADHD
The treatment for NPD and ADHD involves using evidence-based and holistic modalities. Treatment plans should be comprehensive and tailored to fit the specific needs of the individual. Some of the various treatments used for both conditions are:
- Psychotherapy: One-on-one sessions using various methods, such as CBT and DBT, help people explore their feelings, behaviors, and thoughts related to their NPD or ADHD and develop effective coping skills.
- Group therapy: Group therapy allows others to learn from others who are also struggling with NPD or ADHD. Group sessions may also include psychoeducation, skills development, and process groups.
- Holistic therapies: Various holistic therapies, such as meditation, yoga, mindfulness, and art therapy, can help people with NPD or ADHD more effectively manage their symptoms.
- Medication management: The use of various FDA-approved medications can be helpful for some people with NPD or ADHD.
ADHD and Narcissism: Final Thoughts
While there can be a connection between ADHD and narcissism, with overlapping traits, it does not always mean someone has both ADHD and NPD. Rather, a person could have ADHD or NPD and just be exhibiting overlapping traits. However, there is still the potential for an adult with ADHD to develop a personality disorder, which could lead to co-occurring conditions.
To determine if you have ADHD, NPD, or a co-occurring condition, it is vital to obtain a professional diagnosis from a qualified healthcare professional.
Find ADHD and NPD Treatment in California and Arizona Today
If you are struggling with symptoms of ADHD or NPD or both conditions, the professionals at Montare Behavioral Health are here to help and support you. Our caring and compassionate team offers comprehensive treatment programs tailored to your unique needs.
Let us help you take control of your mental health condition for a brighter future and improved mental well-being. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment programs or to schedule an initial consultation.
