Causes, Risk Factors, And Complications Of Narcissistic Personality Disorder

Issues with Physical Health

Individuals with narcissistic personality disorder who abuse substances may experience any number of physical health issues related to alcohol or drug abuse. Prolonged alcohol abuse can lead to liver failure, and drug overdose can cause death or organ damage. Substance abuse also has a measurable impact on an individual's brain chemistry over time. Another study showed a correlation between narcissistic traits and cortisol levels. During the study, students were told they would be giving a presentation to an audience of experts. Before the presentation, their notes were taken away. These circumstances caused increased physical stress, which the researchers measured. Though many individuals expected those with NPD wouldn't react with stress due to their confidence, the opposite was true. Instead, these patients reacted with much greater cortisol levels. Cortisol is the body's stress hormone, and in high doses, it can cause chronic physical issues. The implication is narcissists experience performance-related stress much more acutely, which can lead to health problems.