Although some people may be tempted to use the word “narcissist” in this context, it is important to remember that there is a difference between someone who is self-centered and unsympathetic and someone with narcissistic personality disorder. It is important. Many people can exhibit traits that medical professionals call narcissistic, such as feeling entitled or having a lofty sense of self.
Dealing with someone with narcissistic personality disorder can be difficult.
What narcissism is, how to deal with someone who frequently displays narcissistic tendencies, how their behavior affects you, and what you can do to protect your own mental health. All are covered in this article.
What is a narcissist?
A narcissist is someone who exaggerates who they are. People with this trait are extremely concerned about their image and appearance and often show little consideration or empathy for others.
Narcissists are extremely self-centered and have a negative impact on those around them. This is why it’s important to spot the red flags so you can develop strategies to deal with the narcissist in your life.
Also read: Types of Mental Health Problems
Why is it important to actively protect yourself from a narcissist?
If you have a close relationship with a narcissist, whether it’s a family member, partner, friend, or work colleague, your self-esteem will suffer. Narcissists use any manipulative technique to control the situation and maintain their fragile sense of self. They will gradually degrade your sense of worth and make you dependent on them.
Below are some of the typical consequences of having an intimate relationship with a narcissist.
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decreased confidence and respect
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separation
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loss of identity
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Be wary of conflict and be too cautious.
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When you put the other person’s needs before your own, your boundaries begin to erode.
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You are blaming yourself for all your problems.
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They become overly dependent on the narcissist, either financially or socially, or give excessive amounts of money to the narcissist.
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Anxiety, depression and mental health issues
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self-doubt
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Decreased purpose, goals, and ambitions
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People who leave abusive and narcissistic relationships often suffer from PTSD3. After being in a relationship, they can become overly sensitive or numb.
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Your relationships with narcissistic partners, friends, colleagues, and family members can have a huge impact on you. In such cases, you need to act as soon as possible.
4 Advice on How to Deal with a Narcissist
Narcissists can be demanding and difficult to deal with. It can be difficult to feel safe at home or at work, which can take a toll on your mental health.
It is important to find coping mechanisms. By knowing the causes of narcissism and exploring the most effective coping mechanisms, you can manage your relationship with a narcissist while maintaining your mental health. This advice is useful if you need to deal with a narcissist at home, at work, or in a social situation.
1. Don’t personalize their behavior.
Be aware that the person you interact with may have narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). The exact cause of NPD is unknown, but it is often associated with factors such as genetics, childhood abuse, trauma, personality, and upbringing.
People with NPD need professional help, but few seek it. They may not be able to change their behavior on their own or realize there is a problem. If you suggest that they see a therapist, they will likely refuse or react badly.
We know that narcissistic behaviors such as manipulation and lack of attention are not personal attacks against you, but the problem is that these behaviors often feel that way. Keep in mind that it’s not personal.
They did not do this, and you are not responsible. You can encourage them to seek help, but you are not obligated to support them or correct their mistakes.
2. Set boundaries
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Setting clear boundaries is one of the most important things you can do when dealing with a narcissist in your home or business. In a relationship, boundaries define the kind of person you are and are not ready to accept. They are unwavering boundaries that define what is appropriate and acceptable behavior.
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For example, when communicating with each other, you can clearly declare that you do not tolerate acts such as disrespect or name-calling. If they continue to act like this, the discussion will be over.
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Setting limits does not mean trying to influence others. Instead, these restrictions make it clear which actions are unacceptable. Once you establish boundaries, it’s important to stick to them. If others violate it, the consequences should be applied immediately.
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Similar to the previous scenario, stop talking and walk away as soon as possible. Don’t fight with them or wait for a response. Please finish it.
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Similarly, don’t make empty threats or demands that you won’t keep. If you don’t enforce your boundaries, the other person won’t take your boundaries seriously. But if you follow through with the consequences, they’re more likely to believe you when you say the behavior is unacceptable.
For example: “If you keep talking like that, this conversation is over.” If they exhibit the behavior you warned them about, get out of there as quickly (and safely) as possible.
It’s also important to understand that setting and maintaining limits is an ongoing process. Continue to establish your boundaries and remind people of them.
Also read: 8 tips for a happier relationship
3. Recognize gaslighting
You may have observed a narcissist engage in a behavior known as gaslighting. This manipulation defies reality in a way that makes you question your perceptions and experiences.
for example:
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They may dispute what they said or jokingly claim that you are being oversensitive.
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They may question your knowledge of what happened, accuse you of misreading events or overreacting, and undermine your confidence.
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In other situations, they may simply dispute their own actions or statements.
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Dealing with gaslighting is difficult, especially when your words contradict the other person’s words. Recording events in writing, keeping physical records to support your experiences, and asking others to observe your discussions with others are all ways to cope. This is very important at work, where a selfish competitor may accuse you of bad or incompetent behavior in order to win over colleagues or superiors.
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When they try to gaslight you, make it clear that you know what you’re doing and won’t put up with it again and set boundaries.
4. Find help
If you have a relationship with a narcissist, such as a roommate, family member, lover, or co-worker, dealing with the narcissist’s dysfunctional and sometimes abusive behavior can be exhausting. It is important to maintain healthy relationships with kind and supportive others.
approach You need to have other people to chat with about how you’re doing for emotional support and perspective. Build healthy relationships with others and listen to each other. You will feel safe with them because they will accept you for who you are.
Please refrain from venting or gossiping at work. Narcissists are good at using your words against you. However, to counter a narcissist’s attempts to discredit you, confidentially inform your boss of the narcissist’s actions.
conclusion
Living with a narcissist is difficult. Even if it’s exhausting and difficult, there are things you can do to stay strong, supported, and mentally healthy. Remember that you are not the problem. Try not to take their actions personally. Establish clear boundaries, protect your values, and seek supportive relationships with others who can empathize with your situation.
Finally, remember that you don’t have to wait until the relationship becomes toxic to call it quits. The best thing you can do for your mental health is to remove yourself from the situation often.
Also read: Why relationship counseling increases intimacy
