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Warning-sign checks

Narcissistic personality disorder: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call local emergency services or go to an emergency department if there is a suicide attempt, a specific plan with intent to act, an immediate threat of violence, or another immediate danger.

    If another person's behaviour puts you at risk, move to a safer place when possible and contact emergency or domestic abuse services.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek urgent help if you or someone else has suicidal thoughts, escalating self-harm, severe substance use, or feels unable to stay safe.

    Contact an urgent mental health service, crisis service, or medical professional available in your area.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine mental health appointment if long-standing problems with self-esteem, criticism, anger, empathy, or relationships are causing distress or disrupting daily life.

    Help is also appropriate for depression, anxiety, substance use, or repeated relationship breakdowns, whether or not NPD is the cause.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Narcissistic personality disorder. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.